Incident Overview
A pilot reported an accident during a landing in a tailwheel-equipped airplane on a hard-surfaced runway. Wind conditions were calm or nearly calm. The pilot executed an intentional main gear wheel landing, keeping the tailwheel off the runway for part of the landing roll.
Loss of Control
When the pilot lowered the tailwheel to the runway, directional control was lost, and the airplane swerved to the left. During the subsequent ground loop, the right main landing gear collapsed, and the right wing struck the runway.
Damage
Substantial damage occurred to the right wing and the right main landing gear gearbox. The pilot stated there were no preimpact mechanical problems with the airplane.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that the airplane was traveling too fast when he elected to lower the tailwheel, and he believes that excessive speed precipitated the loss of control.