Morisset Golf Club head professional David Stretton said picking a likely winner for the 36-hole event was always tough, but even more so this year given the quality and depth of talent on show.

"We've got our biggest ever field this year, with Peter O'Malley, Nathan Green, Matt Millar, Leigh McKechnie, David Bransdon, Ed Stedman and Corey Hale among the leading players," Stretton said.

"You can't go past Peter O'Malley and Leigh McKechnie when talking about possible winners this year.

"Those two have played here for years, and have got the runs on the board."

Stretton said O'Malley, in particular, was very familiar with the course.

O'Malley has friends at the club, and plays the course socially, Stretton said.

The event will start tomorrow (Friday) with sponsor's day, followed by shoot-outs for the professionals, and for sponsors, from about 2pm.

The pro shoot-out is a highlight of the event.

Professionals hit shots in a nearest-the-pin competition from about 100m out from the 18th green.

Spectators surround the green, and look on from the club balcony, offering vocal support for the golfers.

The pro-am begins in earnest on Saturday, with the second round completed on Sunday.

Last year's winner Aaron Townsend is playing overseas and will not defend his Morisset title.

Wet weather looms as a wildcard.

"The rain about this week will make the course play a bit longer," Stretton said.

"But our golf course superintendent Nathan Raynolds has done an amazing job. The course is probably in the best condition that it's been in for a few years."

While the rain is also expected to make the greens more receptive, Stretton was not expecting the course to be at the mercy of the pros.

"No-one ever tears it apart. It's a good test of golf," he said of the Morisset layout.

"I'd say if someone shot 6-under over the two days, they'd be right up there."