$250,000 Knoxville Nike Open on the weekend by just two strokes.

Competing in a one-day Nike qualifier earlier last week in Tennessee, Pearman carded a four-under-par 67, one shot short of a play-off spot and two shy of claiming one of the 14 qualifying places outright.

While disappointed with missing out, Pearman's performance gave him something to aim for as he steps up his bid to become a member of the Nike Tour.

"I'm going to give it a shot, picking at it here and there,'' said Pearman who plans to compete overseas around his commitments at Ocean View where he is the pro. The 36-year-old Pearman said he was encouraged by his performance last week.

"I hit 17 greens in regulation so I played well,'' he said.

"The course wasn't tough but I knew five-under was going to be the number. I had my opportunities.'' Many have rated Pearman as good enough for the Nike Tour and now he wants to prove it to himself.

"I still have a commitment at Ocean View but I do want to give the Tour a try,'' he admitted.

"I can't afford to go out there and stay, but I can go for a few weeks and come back. I'm getting older so I think it's time to give it a shot. I know what I'm up against.'' Some 188 players were competing in the qualifying tournament in Tennessee, battling for 14 spots.

The Knoxsville Open on the par 72 Fox Den Country Club was won by Jeff Gove who pocketed a winning cheque of $45,000.