Glider Training Flight Ends in Hedge Row Collision (N99954)

Incident Overview

During a supervised solo flight in a glider, a commercial pilot undergoing training for a glider rating was practicing landings. While flying the traffic pattern, the pilot rolled out high on final approach and extended the spoilers to adjust the glide path. The spoilers were then retracted to the 50% position. Shortly after, the pilot realized the glider was low and retracted the spoilers completely. Despite this action, the glider was unable to glide to the runway and subsequently collided with a hedge row approximately 50 feet short of the runway.

Pilot Observations

The pilot reported that his experience flying powered aircraft may have interfered with his training in gliders. No further details about the aircraft or weather conditions were provided in the source.

Conclusion

The incident resulted in the glider striking a hedge row short of the intended landing area. The source does not state any injuries or structural damage beyond the collision.