Several hundred people braved rain, hail and strong winds to stick with the nighttime filming of "American Ninja Warrior" at the state Capitol on Friday night. [Photo by Steve Lackmeyer, The Oklahoman]

One week after another, Oklahoma City is reaping the rewards of years of investment that are softening the blow of what is turning into the most painful downturn in the energy industry since the 1980s.

One week, the city's riverfront hosts the Road to Rio Olympic festival, which brought hundreds to town to participate and spectate kayaking on the newly opened RiverSport Rapids. That competition is expected to eventually be aired as part of NBC's Olympics coverage.

Yet another NBC production was in town over the weekend, and “American Ninja Warrior” definitely brought more to town than what some might have expected. Officials with the Oklahoma City Convention and Visitors Bureau admit it's complicated to calculate the exact economic impact of the obstacle-course competition show.

Sue Hollenbeck, who oversees sports promotions with the bureau, can report the show's crew booked 850 room nights during their stay. Visiting with cast, crew and fans on a rainy Friday evening, the evidence of a far bigger impact became clear.