Heel and toe is where it's at, baby. Practice it every time you drive your car... you'll get it. Lots of people find crutches and excuses to get them by without doing it but heel and toe is the way to get into a lower gear when racing.
I widened my throttle pedal so it's real close to the brake pedal. Then I adjusted my pedal heights so when the brakes are full on, the brake pedal is the same height as the throttle. Then, just practice, practice, practice. Every time you come to a stop when driving on the street, practice your heel and toe technique.

So there's my opinion... now let me put on my flame proof suit...