KROP - Kaizen Rite of Passage
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KROP - Kaizen Rite of Passage
KROP is a loop-based trail running event held at Welling Ridge Trails near Tahlequah, Oklahoma. The event uses a common 4-mile loop for all distances, bringing participants back through the start/finish area each lap.
Distances offered:
- 4 miles, one loop, about 417 feet elevation per loop
- 8 miles, two loops, about 834 feet total elevation
- 16 miles (25k), four loops
- 32 miles (50k), eight loops
- 40 miles (65k), ten loops
- Ruck relay, team event with 4-mile loops
The course is single-track, rock-covered and root-twisted, requiring attention on technical terrain. Each 4-mile loop yields roughly 417 feet of elevation gain and loss. A random bonus called the Extra Magic Mile may appear during the day and will not count toward official mileage. The Kaizen Rock of Passage is an optional, adults-only challenge in which participants may carry heavy stones found on course for a monetary reward.
Finishers receive awards: a finisher award for completing one loop, medals for the top three in each distance, and special belt buckles for 50k and 65k finishers. The ruck relay awards full-sized championship belts to top teams.
Logistics and rules include packet pick-up on the days before and on race morning, a strict 6:00 pm overall cutoff for all distances, required 20 lb rucks for the relay, and a no drop-down policy for ultra distances. The event proceeds rain or shine with no refunds; life-threatening weather may prompt a virtual option or deferral. Food service and an aid station are provided on site. Volunteer roles include setup, packet pickup, course marshaling, aid station support, and pack out. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
