Started right after 8:20 AM (Guadalupe is in MT, but devices/uploads get confused with CT) and headed up Bear Canyon to Hunter Peak, which is not part of the four highest (6th highest peak in Texas) but is not much of an add-on so why not? Was 53m25s to the summit then 44m42s to Bush Peak where the off-trail connection to the other summits begins. Lots of steep and very rough terrain, and everything wants to slice and dice you, legs were torn up pretty good but I knew that going in and still only chose ankle gators with shorts. Only 24m07s over to Bartlett Peak then 27m38s to Shumard Peak. I was starting to struggle with the link over to Guadalupe Peak with some cramping, making it difficult to climb and step over brush, and covered this in 39m10s before getting back on the trail for the 4mi descent back to the trailhead in 39m50s for a total time of 5h05m55s and 1h21m43s off of the current FKT. It was hitting 80 degrees and barely any wind so that didn't help. I think the off-trail route I took was pretty efficient, there are definitely some spots along the ridge line you do not want to lose your footing. I chose the counter-clockwise direction to cover the Bear Canyon climb right away, I think this is a good safe direction even if you decide to go up Tejas instead, so if you do run into trouble late in the route you will be on/close to the very popular summit trail. I am in the park for SAR so please ensure you are well-equipped and don't let the FKT push you into a dangerous place. I could have carried more water and fuel, only 2 x 800ml, four isotonic gels, and bag of chews. I also started with a full belly of water. Some time to shave here in cooler conditions and not heading in as fatigued (had done the summit trail for SAR the day before). Incredible route, the ridge is impressive on the west side and was my favorite view. Wore the Altra Mont Blanc Carbon with the trail gators and used poles which were key for the bush wacking and steep terrain. Eyewear and headwear is another good choice to protect from branches.