Shifting is more important i say but more important is the initial pick. As per my experience with stick shift, dont burnout in initial pick, rather put ur handbrake ON and keep the release button pressed, shift to 1st gear and bring clutch at the point of release and then simultaneously:
Accelerator to 5rpm / release clutch fully / drop the handbrake lever
If done well, u will be surprised on the performance.
Good luck but remember ..... one has to lose and it cud be u, so take it az dude