I think the autostart is set around 2.5 seconds, it will vary +/- 0.1 to deter cheating.

A manually thrown starter switch is totally up to the individual starter, years ago when I was running S/ST, some whiner accused our starter of collaborating with me, as I was getting good lights on the .500 pro tree off the footbrake.

As was said before, being totally focused after lighting the 2nd stage bulb is the key. Go to TNT and get as many hits as you can. After 8-10 hits staging shallow, try rolling in a few inches. A practice tree is a good tool, also.