Caveat: not a grinder and I don't play online. However, I don't hesitate to fly to an event simply because I like the event and can make the schedule work with my caseload.
Certainly something to remember is that, just as you got in via satellite, so to will have many others. Some of them will be playing scared (for lack of a better description) precisely because they will still not feel as though it is $5K of their own money at risk.
Don't be afraid to be social at the table...this will put some at ease but will also give you a better feel for who the scared money might be. Use this to your advantage. Don't volunteer that this is outside of your usual comfort zone or level of play...
Do have fun