In order for events like the Simpson Cup to thrive, and capture the imagination year after year, there is plenty that goes into it behind the scenes. And once again, the ability for On Course Foundation USA to stage it is thanks to the generosity of our sponsors - along with the incredible support provided by The Creek and its members.

In recognition of that, the traditional Monday Player/Sponsor competition provides an opportunity for these generous individuals to connect with the beneficiaries of their donations: the Simpson Cup players. Perhaps more importantly, it allows them to get a first-hand glimpse of how their support has made such a difference to the lives of these injured and sick veterans.

The day itself was a shotgun start, with much fervor and bonhomie on the putting green beforehand. A brief address from John Simpson wishing everybody luck followed, before everyone scattered to their allocated tee. The weather just about played its part, with the clouds disappearing as the day wore on, and a fresh breeze beginning to ease up. And for the players, it was a chance to get a look at this iconic golf course in dry conditions.

Today's competition saw each group playing in a Scramble, with some good numbers posted on the day. In the end it was the illustrious contingent of Peter Brannon, Eddie Quiroz, the Maidstone Club duo of John Baptiste and David McCreery, and Team USA's Russell Normandin who took took the spoils - shooting a remarkable 15-under score of 55.

It was almost secondary to the theme of the day though, with camaraderie, beaming smiles and warm words for The Creek the common denominator among all the groups as they finished up their rounds. Today's competition also carries extra significance, as it commemorates the life of Dave Bagby, who sadly passed away in 2016. Bagby competed in the 2015 Simpson Cup at Royal St George's for Team USA, and had a profound impact on his peers, the Simpson Cup and the On Course Foundation during his final years.



Tuesday fourball pairings revealed

For the players, the time for preparation is now complete, as they get down to serious business tomorrow with the six fourball matches (commencing at 8am ET).

Following plenty of discussion at their respective team meetings, captains Todd Tongue (Team USA) and Greig Phillips (Team GB) revealed their pairings, and, in terms of notable match-ups, there is no shortage to choose from. Look no further than the second group, which features both captains, along with scratch golfer Chad Pfeifer.

However, there is strength and depth across all six matches, with a number of enticing duels that will surely go down to the wire. For the Americans, who come into this year's event off the back of defeat at St Andrews in 2019, the need for a fast start on Tuesday is particularly acute. History is on their side, however, as they've racked up a commanding 29 points in the fourball matches (out of a possible 48) since 2012, so Tongue will know better than anyone that tomorrow represents an excellent opportunity to map a route towards victory.

As for the Brits, they'll be looking to win the first session on American soil for the first time since 2012. Given their considerable talent pool and experience, you wouldn't bet against them. They'll be up against a fired-up host nation though, so the outcome tomorrow is anyone's guess. All we know for sure is that it's going to be one heck of a spectacle, and, if you're in the area, The Creek is the place to be.

You can view tomorrow's pairings, and keep track of the live scoring on Tuesday and Wednesday, by clicking here. Additionally, the Team GB and Team USA twitter accounts, along with our Instagram account, will bring it all to your screen, as it happens. Take it all in folks - Simpson Cup 2021 is ready for lift off!