Incident Overview
A glider pilot reported that shortly after the tow plane rotated for takeoff, the tow plane pilot pulled power, causing the glider to rapidly gain on the tow plane. The glider pilot determined that landing behind the tow plane was not feasible and released the tow cable. He then executed a right turn over an open field of tall weeds, leveled off, and made a course correction to align with the runway. Using the available altitude, he increased airspeed and flew across the weed field until settling into the tall weeds. During the landing, the horizontal plane surface and the left wing struck rotten stumps hidden by the weeds.
Tow Plane Pilot Account
The tow plane pilot stated that the airplane was not developing full power, leading him to abort the takeoff. A subsequent examination of the tow plane revealed no anomalies.
Findings
The glider pilot's actions included releasing the tow cable and maneuvering to an off-field landing in a weed-covered area. The tow plane pilot's decision to abort was based on insufficient power, but no mechanical issues were identified during inspection of the tow plane.