I'm not a speedrunner, but have played since the game came out.

I watched the speedruns, and they do not make use of the techniques I've found for collecting items at the beginning of each level. For example:

Level 1: Location where to sit to get 2 items

Level 2: Location where to sit to get 2 items 3: Where to sit to get 2 items: Notes: this is the best level to farm level ups. Missile is basically required to beat any turtle levels. Level 4 do the same as MrPleasant59. Stick to the right wall and let the ball go.

Level 5: Immediately go to position and let the ball go, it will bounce and hit the ship