Incident Overview
A pilot landed an experimental glider with a 15-knot tailwind on the approach end of the runway, as reported by the pilot and confirmed by ground witnesses. When the pilot applied the brakes to stop the glider, no resistance was felt on the brake control handle and the glider failed to slow down. Realizing he could not stop before overrunning the end of the runway, the pilot steered the aircraft toward a wooden wall of a commercial building rather than allowing it to continue toward a chain-link fence.
Inspection Findings
An FAA airworthiness inspector examined the experimental glider and found that a 1.6mm steel cable, which runs between the cockpit brake handle and the main wheel brake actuator, had separated. The inspector reported that the reason for the cable failure could not be determined.
Aircraft and Operational Details
No additional information about the glider's type, registration, date, location, or occupants was provided in the source. The time of day, weather conditions beyond the reported tailwind, and any injuries or damage to the aircraft or building were not specified.