RC, Here are some reference times from Scott with coached athletes
2hrs up the old trail (almost fall line) with 40lbs fasted Z1-2 is a decent time. This at 20%BW.
Under 1:50 with 20% is excellent, fast.
Very fit Everest summiter a few years ago ran it in 1:35 no weight.
It is 4300ft avg grade 26%. I usually have them come down the new trail (switchbacks)
A word of caution as you probably well understand one the absolute best ways to NOT improve is to focus on someone else’s pacing or HR when trying to develop aerobic capacity. Hope this helps.