KROP - Kaizen Rite of Passage

Event Overview

KROP: Kaizen Rite of Passage – Year 2: DON'T CALL IT A COMEBACK!

Guess who’s back!? KROP returns to Tahlequah, Oklahoma at the rugged and scenic Welling Ridge Trails for its second year!

Race Distances

• Options: Runners can choose from 4, 8, 16 (25k), 32 (50k) miles, or the brand-new 40 mile (65k) distance.
• Loop Course: All races follow the same 4-mile loop, returning through the start/finish area every lap.
• Support: Expect energy, food, and support at the start/finish area throughout the race.
• Rite of Passage: Designed for runners of all experience levels to bridge distances and challenge themselves.

Unique Features

• The Extra Magic Mile: A bonus mile challenge that appears randomly on the course, adding fun without counting towards your mileage.
• The Kaizen ROCK of Passage: Find and carry a massive stone for a chance to win $100: this challenge is only for entrants 18 and over!
• Course Challenges: Prepare to tackle single-track, technical trails with potential elevation changes.
• Potential PRs: KROP is a great place for experienced athletes to achieve personal records (PRs).

Packet Pick-Up

• Early Pick-Up: Recommended from 12-5pm on Thursday 9/24 at NSU's Fitness Center.
• Race Day: Packet pick-up begins at 5am on Saturday, with a minimum pick-up time of 15 minutes before your start time.
• Start Times: Be aware of your posted start time and plan accordingly.
• Multiple Distances: This rule applies to all race distances.

Finisher Perks & Awards

• Finisher’s Award: Complete one 4-mile loop to earn an award.
• Belt Buckle: 50k and 65k finishers receive a special KROP belt buckle.
• Medals: Top 3 finishers in every distance receive gold, silver, or bronze medals.
• Team Relay: Ruck Team Relay offers team challenges for 10 hours with championship belts for winning teams.

Race Day Experience

This isn’t just a race—it’s a 12-hour trail running party fueled by Team Kaizen hospitality:

• Breakfast Treats: Donuts for breakfast starting at 6am.
• Grilled Food: Burgers & dogs on the grill starting at 10am.
• Aid Station: Fully stocked with necessities including everyone's favorite BLUE GATORADE.
• Energy & Support: A friendly atmosphere enhancing your running experience.

The Course

Welling Ridge Trails are beautiful but brutal—rock-covered, root-twisted single-track terrain located in Tahlequah, OK.

• Elevation: Approximately 417 feet of elevation gain and loss per loop.
• Pace Requirement: 50k needs a pace of 22:30 per mile: 65k needs 18:00 per mile.
• Cutoff: All distances have a cutoff time of 6pm: finish by then or you will be marked as DNF.
• Drop Downs: No drop downs allowed for ultra distances due to registration contract.

Additional Information

• Weather Policy: The event is rain or shine: no refunds issued, weather permitting.
• Volunteers: Volunteers are needed for various roles: register to volunteer.
• Location: Welling Ridge Trails, 19679 S 550 Rd, Tahlequah, OK 74464.
• Registration: Sign up by 8/01/26 for a guaranteed shirt.

Conclusion

Are you ready for your Rite of Passage? Join us at KROP on September 26, 2026.