Incident Overview
A glider pilot reported that while gliding, there was no lift available, prompting a decision to turn back toward the departure airport. Throughout the return flight, the pilot attempted to find lift but was unsuccessful. The aircraft then encountered extreme downdrafts, reportedly at least 1,000 feet per minute. Recognizing that a landing at the airport was no longer possible, the pilot elected to land on a golf course.
Landing Attempt
As the glider approached to land on a fairway, the pilot noticed golfers on the ground ahead. To avoid them, a steep bank was executed. During this maneuver, the glider sank rapidly. The aircraft subsequently impacted a tree during the landing roll.
Mechanical Status
No mechanical malfunctions were reported with the glider.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that there was no lift throughout the flight back to the airport and that the extreme downdrafts made it impossible to reach the intended landing site. The decision to divert to the golf course was made to ensure a safer landing area, though the presence of golfers necessitated an evasive action that resulted in the collision with the tree.