Why a Reverse Valve Body?

Hi inertia,

B&M VB upgrades show the drilling of the VB body for the 1st gear 'free-wheeling'.
I still don't understand what this is actually for after all my years of drag racing lol...:lol:

At the end of the strip , I just let the throttle of 'real slowly' and apply the brakes 'real gentle' as she gets all outta shape otherwise?
Should I be changing down to 1st and coasting???

I'm very confused DOH!:steering: