oh well, to each it's own. I didn't say you will get slower times

off course you will get much faster times (.2 is about two car lenghs at the end of 1/4). i did flat shift (in previous cars as well), i know what it is, and i know how to do it. You just need to understand what is happening in your drivetrain when you do it, especially in higher gear.
Doing it in first gears, yes you will not catch traction, and might not even hit 3rd gear (hence i don't see a point in doing it). The car in C&D was stock, with new stock tires, your shifting techniques variate, thus regulating the wheelspeen (even with flat shifting). If you have anything more than stock, flatshifting in first couple of gears is not recommended. Stock will do.
As far as the C&D drivers, I don't think they are the best

probably not, but i'm sure they are pretty good at what they do.
I would like to see someone, who on completely stock car (cross on heart), including stock engine mounts and tires has done better than 14.1 at 100. Also, we all know that the tracks variate, some have more traction, and some have less, weather conditions etc. The first time i went to the track, I ran 14.1 at 100 (2.1 60ft)with a MSCAI and flatshifting. I'm not saying i'm the best driver, but it was my first time with this car at the track.... soo... i'd say you have to be damn good driver to hit 14.1 stock, unless your track is glued.