Incident Details
According to the pilot's account, the takeoff and initial climb proceeded normally. After reaching rotation speed, the pilot rotated and started climbing. Once a positive rate of climb was attained, the pilot selected the landing gear to the up position.
During the climb, the pilot reported feeling that his right shoelace was caught on something. He then bent down to fix the shoelace, estimating that 1–2 seconds passed while doing so. The pilot stated that he believed he had applied enough back pressure to maintain the climb, but noted, 'maybe I pushed the yoke a little forward with my chest.'
As the pilot straightened up after fixing the shoelace, he observed that the airplane was descending. The airplane subsequently struck the runway and bounced back into the air. While airborne, the pilot attempted to lower the landing gear, but it would not extend. The airplane then struck the runway again and slid along the runway before coming to a stop.
The pilot also stated to the FAA that there were no mechanical problems with the airplane or its engines during the event.