Obligatory:

No, no, and no. Don't look at the numbers and don't listen to the sound — those are not 100% matched up with the timing. Watch the red lights that Lakitu is holding. The INSTANT the second one lights up, mash the gas. Easy.

I don't like other people telling me what to do. But if I had to lead, I'd send 3 people forward, and 2 people guard in the back.