Event Details
The pilot performed two touch and go landings on runway 18 before attempting a full-stop landing on runway 27. According to the pilot, the southerly wind had decreased during the approach, and he maintained a lowered wing to compensate. The airplane touched down lightly and floated for approximately 100 feet. At that point, a gust of wind from 170 degrees caused the airplane to weather-vane to a heading 45 degrees from the runway centerline.
Pilot Account
The pilot attempted remedial action, but the airplane departed the south side of the runway into the grass. During the excursion, the right wing contacted a tree, and the right main landing gear collapsed.
Weather Conditions
Weather reported 10 minutes prior to the accident at an airport 8 miles east of the accident airport indicated winds from 170 degrees at 10 knots, gusting to 19 knots.