Accident Overview
An airline transport pilot was attempting a southerly departure from a 1,300-foot-long gravel airstrip in a tailwheel-equipped airplane. During the takeoff roll, approximately midway down the airstrip, the airplane's left wheel dug into an area of soft ground. This caused the airplane to veer to the left, and the left wing subsequently struck a stand of trees bordering the airstrip.
Sequence of Events
After the wing strike, the airplane pivoted about 90 degrees to the left. The right main landing gear then collapsed, and the right wing struck the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage as a result of the accident.
Pilot's Observations
The pilot noted that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane.