Incident Summary
A pilot performing a wheel landing on an off-airport gravel bar experienced a loss of directional control during the rollout. According to the pilot's report to the NTSB, the airplane's nose swerved to the right shortly after touchdown. The pilot applied the booster brakes in an attempt to correct the swerve, but the nose continued moving to the right, causing the airplane to ground loop. The airplane subsequently sustained substantial damage to both wings and the empennage. The pilot stated that he did not know if a mechanical issue was involved, but noted that the right brake 'may' have locked up.
Pilot and Aircraft Information
The pilot, who provided the report to the NTSB, did not specify the aircraft make, model, or registration. The airplane owner indicated that the landing area was a gravel bar measuring approximately 1,500 feet in length and 100 feet in width. The pilot was attempting to stop the airplane quickly in order to make a short turnoff. At the time of the accident, winds were calm.
Damage Assessment
Both wings and the empennage (the tail section) sustained substantial damage as a result of the ground loop. No other damage or injuries were mentioned in the report.