It's not so much about the money as it is the competitive aspect. I think everyone who busted out of the last tournament was at least a bit dissapointed, regardless of whether $5 was material or not for their bankroll.

Besides, even microstakes grinders could probably make a higher $/hour just grinding. It took me 1+2+1+1.5=5.5 hours to play my matches. I made $40, which is about $7/hour, but my expected payout over the long run would be alot less. I wouldn't possibly finish first every time, let alone cash. So in reality, $/hour is even lower, making grinding more profitable than playing the heads up tournament.

But hopefully this short analysis doesn't discourage anyone from playing!