I don't think that speed is important.
I don't think I can play better than Blackmore or Page either, but I think they are the best!
First, appologize for Malmsteen lovers :), but
Malmsteen is just uncreative, and he tries to cover it by playing evrything very fast. I think it's stupid. Blackmore says in his 10 notes more than Malmsteen in whis whole album.

See ya