What happened
During the takeoff roll on runway 21L, the pilot completed all pre-takeoff checks for engine systems and flight controls. The aircraft became airborne after a standard ground roll distance and began a climb at a rate of approximately 100 to 200 feet per minute. Upon reaching an altitude of roughly 100 feet, the pilot determined that the aircraft was not gaining sufficient altitude.
Believing there was remaining runway length of 2,000 to 2,500 feet, the pilot initiated a precautionary landing. The aircraft touched down normally along the runway centerline; however, during the landing rollout, the airplane veered to the left. The aircraft exited the runway and entered nearby grass, where the left main gear struck soft soil, causing the aircraft to pivot to the left.
There were no injuries resulting from the event.
Findings
The pilot had only 3.5 hours of experience operating this tailwheel-equipped aircraft. The pilot noted an unfamiliarity with the tendency of the aircraft to veer left during the landing rollout and expressed hesitation to overcorrect, which contributed to the loss of directional control.