What can I say, an excellent first post; welcome to the community Jim.
I certainly agree that the physics of vehicle dynamics dictate maximum braking for the shortest period of time and being on throttle for the longest periods is the fastest possible way around any circuit. The theory goes out the door when the human starts making the decisions; we are not consistent and most often not rational either.
What I find interesting and something that I would not have thought about is how you had to change your braking to use less trailing with a non-ABS car. It does make sense, I just would not have thought that might be one of the outcomes.
I have been watching F1 since 9-yrs old, that's over 30 yrs btw, and what grabs my attention the most is how seldom those drivers brake on a straight line. Granted they have significant help from their aero, but being on such balance and sensitivity is something to be admired I think.
I like your next topic as well, I hope you do start the thread