Why does TIME matter?
Because its the direct measure of human performance, which is the intent.
The more extraneous factors you can eliminate , the more pure performance comparisons can be made.
Should people care whose driver knows the roads , trailheads, campsites best?
Care whose spouse is a better crew and cook?
Who has the most experienced help and advice in strategy and planning?
Who can afford better transportation, lodging, gear, medical attention?
Who has the most friends/groupies carry their crap so they dont have too?
Who has most people volunteer to "lead them" thru confuzzling areas at night
Because...that stuff is huge part of supported success.