What happened
A pilot was conducting a flight intended to gain proficiency in a tailwheel equipped airplane. At the time of the accident, the pilot had approximately 3.5 hours of experience in this specific aircraft type. Due to a runway closure, operations were restricted to runway 5-23.
Before departure, wind indicators showed differing conditions: the wind sock at the end of the runway indicated winds from 090 degrees at 8 knots, while the terminal wind sock indicated winds from 140 degrees. The pilot noted that such discrepancies were a common occurrence. During the flight, the pilot observed that the crosswind was increasing.
Upon performing the final landing, the airplane veered to the right and exited the runway surface. This maneuver resulted in the collapse of the left main gear. Following the incident, the wind was noted to be from approximately 190 to 200 degrees at about 18 knots. Witnesses present at the scene reported that the winds were gusty during the time of the accident. The pilot was not injured.