Sporting events are part of the social and recreational fabric of Greater Akron. Here are just a few examples:

WGC Bridgestone Invitational

The Bridgestone Invitational is one of four World Golf Championships and brings together the most elite players in the game. The tournament is played at Akron’s famed Firestone Country Club on the 7,400-yard South Course. Tiger Woods has won the tournament a staggering seven times. Bridgestone has agreed to renew its title sponsorship and the tournament will be played at Firestone through at least 2014. For more, go to www.pgatour.com/tournaments/r476.  

Akron Aeros

Akron has its claim on the summer game. The Double-A Akron Aeros, an affiliate of the Cleveland Indians, play their game downtown at Canal Park, a $31 million stadium that opened in 1997, seats 9,100 and features 25 luxury boxes. In 2009, the team won its third Eastern League championship in seven years. Go to www.akronaeros.com for more on the team.  

All-American Soap Box Derby

Akron is the birthplace of the Soap Box Derby, sometimes called The Greatest Amateur Racing Event in the World. The All-American Soap Box Derby is a youth racing program that began nationally in 1934, with world championships held each summer at Derby Downs in Akron. Youngsters from throughout the United States and several foreign countries build nonmotorized cars that they ride and steer in a straight line down a steep road. Racers are grouped into three divisions based on age and level of expertise. Go to www.aasbd.com for more.