Accident Summary
A 255-hour private pilot, who was not instrument-rated and had accumulated 25 hours in the same make and model, was conducting a takeoff on Runway 13. The runway was 2,630 feet long and 30 feet wide, constructed of asphalt. The airplane, equipped with a tailwheel, drifted off the left side of the runway during the takeoff roll.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that after the tail came up during the takeoff roll, the airplane experienced an uncommanded "lurch" to the left. Despite applying opposite rudder and aileron, the pilot was unable to correct the deviation. As the airplane entered the grassy area adjacent to the runway, the pilot closed the throttle and held the elevator in the full aft position to keep the tailwheel on the ground.
Subsequently, the pilot became aware of two drainage ditches that crossed perpendicular to the airplane's intended path. The airplane had enough speed to cross the first ditch, but the main landing gear collided with the second ditch, causing the airplane to nose over. The airplane came to rest in an inverted position.
In the recommendation block of his report, the pilot stated that a stand of trees on the right side of the runway may have caused the wind to push the airplane to the left just as the airplane rolled past the tree line. At the time of the mishap, the winds were reported from 180 degrees at 10 knots.
FAA Inspection
An FAA inspector traveled to the accident site and confirmed that the airplane sustained structural damage. The inspector was able to establish flight control continuity and did not find any pre-existing mechanical malfunctions.