The allure of professional golf is a strong one for the high-level amateur golfers. The paydays, fame and chances to play on the best courses in the country when they are brought up to top conditions is indeed a tantalizing offer. But when the reality of the long drives and constant grinding for dollars on the smaller tours sets in, many elect to return to their amateur roots, where they can hold down a day job, practice when the chance presents itself, then compete against like minded (and similarly handicapped) individuals.

For Jeremy Gearhart, it was another factor that led to him applying for his amateur reinstatement about a year-and-a-half into his professional career. The arrival of his son, Reid.

"That was a life-changing experience," said Gearhart.

Life on the Hooters Tour wasn't making him rich, and with a child on the way, it was time to make a change.

"I was a bottom-feeder, no real success," said Gearhart. "I made a few cuts but didn't get any wins."

He gave up on tour and now finds work as a contractor and at the Chalk Mountain Golf Club in his hometown.