What happened
During a takeoff attempt, the pilot of the tow plane reduced power immediately after rotation. This reduction in thrust caused the glider to quickly close the distance between itself and the towing aircraft. Fearing an imminent collision, the glider pilot decided that landing behind the tow plane was not a viable option.
The glider pilot executed a release of the tow cable and initiated a right turn over an open field characterized by tall weeds. After leveling off, the pilot performed a course correction to realign the aircraft with the runway. The pilot utilized existing altitude to build airspeed while flying across the weed-covered field, eventually settling the aircraft into the vegetation. During the landing, the horizontal stabilizer and the left wing of the glider struck rotten stumps that were obscured by the tall weeds.
The investigation
Investigators examined the tow plane to determine why power was reduced during the takeoff roll. The examination of the tow plane revealed no anomalies in its mechanical operation.