Accident Overview
Two pilots, a private pilot in the left seat and a flight instructor in the right seat, were conducting a takeoff from a rough, turf runway. The flight was being performed under a ferry permit, as the aircraft was out of annual inspection.
Pilot Statements
The private pilot, who had just purchased the aircraft, stated that after starting the engine, they taxied to the end of the runway, made a U-turn, and began the takeoff. As they applied power, the aircraft gradually moved a few feet to the right, where tall bushes lined the strip. The grass runway was approximately 30 feet wide, leaving little margin for error. The aircraft bounced from potholes, and the right wingtip clipped the brush, making it difficult to steer left. Before corrective action could be taken, the right main gear leg encountered a ditch hidden by the brush, causing the aircraft to flip over.
The flight instructor in the right seat reported that they completed the runup and checklist, then started the takeoff roll. Halfway down the runway, the aircraft was close to the right edge. The right wingtip hooked the brush, pulling the aircraft to the right and flipping it upside down.
Subsequent Observations
The former owner of the aircraft, who also owned the airstrip, arrived at the scene and asked what had happened. The pilots responded that each had thought the other pilot was in control of the aircraft.