What happened
The pilot was attempting to land to the west on a private airstrip, which measured 1,800 by 40 feet. The east-west runway was bordered on both sides by trees and elevated terrain. Prior to the landing, the pilot observed westerly winds estimated at 20 to 25 knots.
As the aircraft reached approximately 10 feet above ground level (AGL) with an indicated airspeed of 60 knots, a wind gust lifted the aircraft and drifted it toward the north side of the runway. To avoid striking a hangar located on the northeast side of the airstrip, the pilot banked the aircraft to the left and initiated a go-around.
During this go-around maneuver, the right wing of the aircraft struck a tree on the south side of the airstrip at approximately 75 feet AGL, causing the aircraft to crash. The pilot was not injured.
Findings
Records indicated that the pilot had completed a checkout in the aircraft with a flight instructor approximately six weeks before the accident. However, no evidence was provided to confirm a current flight review signoff.