Simpson ready for TOC

Last updated: 3rd January 2013

US Open champion Webb Simpson will tee off alongside lanky American Matt Kuchar when the Hyundai Tournament of Champions starts this weekend.

Simpson, who forms part of the second pairing to tee off at the Plantation Course this week, said the Tournament of Champions was the one event he wanted to take part in every season.

"I was walking around near the hotel yesterday and I looked around and told my wife, I want to be here every year, " Simpson told the Golf Channel on Thursday.

"To be able to start your year in Hawaii, it doesn't get any better," said a visibly excited Simpson.

Jason Dufner - one of the more consistent golfers on tour at the moment - and Rickie Fowler will get proceedings under way on Friday afternoon.

However, all eyes will be on the final two pairings for the first round of this week's tournament. FedEx Cup champion Brandt Snedeker and Steve Stricker will tee off last on Friday.

Stricker, the defending champion had a miserable Ryder Cup last year. However he did secure a top ten finish in the World Challenge towards the end of last season.

Experts have already revealed that the Plantation Course will suite the big-hitters.

Very few players in this field hit the ball further than Dustin Jonhson and Masters Champion Bubba Watson.

Both players tee off just before Snedeker and Stricker.

In some of the other pairings for the day, Bill Haas will tee off with Nick Watney, Zach Johnson will tee off with Hunter Mahan and Carl Pettesrson will play alongside Scott Piercy.