Accident Overview
The accident occurred during a VFR race flight. The pilot and a crewmember had conducted a pre-race flight check of the proposed route the day before the accident. On the day of the race, the pilot encountered instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) over mountainous terrain along his route. He adhered to his original flight route. After clearing the higher terrain, he began his descent.
Pre-Race Flight Check
The day before the accident, the pilot and his crewmember performed a pre-race flight check of the proposed VFR race route. This check was intended to review the route.
Accident Sequence
On the day of the race, the pilot encountered IMC while flying over mountainous terrain. He continued to follow his original flight route. After clearing the higher terrain, the pilot initiated a descent.
Impact
During the descent, the aircraft's right, up slope wing impacted the ground. The aircraft then tumbled to a stop.