Pros and Cons of Turning Pro

Question
Late last year, at 42, I was released from my job, a job that was the pinnacle of a 24 year career in Broadcast Management, Sales & Marketing.  With some extra time on my hands and 1.9 index (which is the result of a passion for the game, but, sporadic play over 20 years,) I mused about taking some time off to play on mini tours and, or, traveling to far away places and playing on mini tours while considering my next phase of life.

For the life of me, I can't seem to see the pitfalls in turning pro.  They seem to be:

1) No more playing in my Country Club's tournaments (like the member guest) or MGA events
2) No more attempting to qualify for U.S. Amateur or State Amateur events

So, OK, there's a two year waiting period to return to amateur status if I fail to make money, or, end up seeking another occupation.  Is that SOOO bad?

On the upside:

1) All Golf related activities INCLUDING any club dues are automatically tax deductible.
2) I may actually make some money here or there and fund some global travel
3) I have no idea how good I could be at this game if I devoted more regular time to the pastime

With the prevalence of Mini Tours around the U.S. and abroad being at an all time high, can you think of some aspect I am missing, here?

Just thinking about taking some time and following the dream and would love your insight.

Sincerely,
Tinkering in Texas

Answer
Dear Tony,

Follow the sun my friend.  I think if you don't do it, you might always wonder about what might have happened.  My vote: Go for it!

I will give you a couple of thoughts.  Since you haven't tried to play a "tour" before, you will most likely go through a period of adjustment.  You will learn how to organize yourself for tour golf.  The logistics can get in the way if you don't have someone helping you (and most mini tour players don't).

Some tours have more travel and therefore, more expense involved than other tours.  If you are traveling a lot it means you won't have as much time to practice.  The best situation is a tour that plays courses in a smaller, well defined area so you can live in an apartment, establish a routine and have a decent place to practice.  

Not every mini tour pays out the money they say they'll pay.  Do some research and make sure the tour owners have the money to pay the players and have a solid history of doing so.  If you know any other players out on mini tours, they can tip you off on the bad ones.  Everybody knows those.

Finally, and not to pour cold water on your dream, but a 1.9 index is boarder line.  That index is most likely earned on a golf course you are very familiar with.  Hopefully, with your love of the game, desire to follow your dream and more time and effort to give to your game, you'll improve.  

You will be nearly 20 years older than most of your competition.  So you may feel somewhat alone out there.  The courses you play will not be in "tour" condition. It will not be a glamorous life style at the mini tour level.

Regaining your amateur status (if this doesn't work out for you) is not all that difficult.  I wouldn't worry about that too much.

Hope you have fun.  Someday you may write a book about your experiences (another potential benefit of following your dream).

Best wishes,

Paul Dolman
PGA Golf Professional