What happened
A private certificated pilot was attempting to depart toward the west from a remote beach. The takeoff area consisted of soft sand, measuring approximately 300 yards in length and 50 yards in width. During the initial stages of the takeoff roll, the pilot reported that the wind was coming from the west at approximately 10 knots.
As the aircraft approached the end of the available takeoff area, the pilot realized the plane was not lifting off. In response, the pilot aborted the takeoff by reducing engine power to idle and applying the brakes. As the aircraft slowed near the end of the sandy strip, it nosed over into a group of small alder trees.
The investigation
The aircraft sustained damage to the propeller, engine, wings, and vertical stabilizer. Upon exiting the overturned aircraft, the pilot observed that the wind was actually blowing from the east, contrary to the initial report of a 10-knot western wind.