The area's sports scene is hopping, and we're not just talking about high school and college football practice resuming.
Don't believe us?
Consider this:
Over the weekend, two very different but exciting events were held in Harrison County: The Greater Clarksburg Area 10K Run, and the darts Hall of Fame Tournament.
Another big event is on the way: From Aug. 4-9, Babe Ruth baseball will hold its Ohio Valley Regional at Frank Loria Memorial Field, also in Harrison County.
We're impressed.
The darts tournament was a well-run event that enabled area residents to see some exciting competition.
Kudos also to the Greater Clarksburg Area 10K Run. Some of the world's top runners went racing through the streets, along with plenty of area runners out for a good time.
As usual, event organization was outstanding, from the "finisher" medals each runner -- including the kids who did the Kids K fun run -- got as soon as he or she crossed the finish line, right down to the wonderful-tasting peaches, pears and plums that were handed out to runners.
The Babe Ruth tournament promises to be more great entertainment for our region, with teams hailing from Kentucky, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin and West Virginia.
Who knows?
Some of the ballplayers at this event could very well be future major leaguers. We can say we saw them here first.
These kinds of events are important for our region from more than just a sports standpoint; they provide great exposure to North Central West Virginia for people from many different states through national media coverage, including ESPN.
Some may want to come back here and spend a vacation. Or bring a business. Or, perhaps, they will tell friends about us.
And then there are businesses considering whether to come here.
When they see the top-notch organization it takes to put on these kinds of events, that's a plus for us.
We applaud the efforts of those who have worked hard to bring and maintain such outstanding events.
Keep up the good work!
Today's editorial is a reflection of the opinion of the Exponent editorial board, which is comprised of James G. Logue, Kevin S. Courtney, Patrick M. Martin, Matt Harvey, Nora Edinger and J. Cecil Jarvis.