Accident Details
A thunderstorm had recently passed over a home airstrip constructed of clay and grass, leaving a puddle of standing water approximately 4 inches deep on a portion of the runway.
Sequence of Events
During the landing roll, just before the tailwheel contacted the runway, the main landing gear encountered the puddle. The aircraft then pitched up onto its nose and subsequently overturned onto its back.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that the accident occurred at dusk, when lighting conditions were poor. He reported that he did not see the water until it was too late to avoid it. The pilot also noted that he was uncertain, but suggested that the accident might have been prevented if he had activated the landing light prior to landing.