Incident Overview
A glider pilot, after being towed to an altitude of 1,000 feet MSL, initially climbed an additional 100 feet. Approximately five minutes later, the glider entered an area that was not generating any lift. The pilot decided to turn back toward the airport. While flying an upwind course that was in close proximity and nearly parallel to the north side of a nearby ridge line, the glider encountered an unexpected downdraft. Unable to maneuver out of the condition, the glider was forced down, impacting steep, rocky terrain.
Environmental Conditions
The pilot reported that the prevailing winds at the accident site were gusting from the southeast. No other meteorological details were provided.
Sequence of Events
After the tow to 1,000 feet MSL, the pilot gained a further 100 feet before encountering the area with no lift. The decision to turn back was made shortly thereafter. The upwind course flown was along the north side of a ridge, where the downdraft occurred. The pilot was unable to recover, resulting in the forced descent and terrain impact.