Why a Reverse Valve Body?

Can anyone tell me the reason for a reverse valve body, other than the fact you are shifting away from reverse? Someone said they are better for drag racing mechanically and better on the trans. Is this true and why?

Back in the early 70s went Turbo Action was doing the R&D on 727s they found out that a manul reverse valve body ...was faster then a stock forward pattern valve body in drag racing test...

that was really important in the NHRA Stock/Super Stock Classes....

the one i currently have was built in 1983...I have one that was a couple of years older..but sold it.