Landing and Initial Drift
The pilot executed a three-point landing on runway 8. During the landing roll, the wind, estimated between 270 and 300 degrees at 6 to 9 knots, lifted the upwind wing. The airplane subsequently drifted left of the runway centerline.
Corrective Control Inputs
In response to the drift, the pilot applied opposite aileron and rudder 'somewhat excessively.' As the airplane returned to the centerline, he applied left rudder, again 'somewhat excessively.' This caused the airplane to veer left. The pilot then applied 'right rudder aggressively,' resulting in a swerve to the right.
Ground Loop and Tire Separation
The abrupt swerve imposed side loads on the landing gear, causing the left tire to separate from the wheel rim. The airplane then ground looped.
Pilot Experience
The pilot reported having logged 4 hours in the accident airplane in the preceding 90 days, of which 3 hours were with an instructor. The accident flight was the pilot's first flight in the airplane as pilot-in-command.