Accident Overview
A glider impacted terrain during an approach to land. The certified flight instructor (CFI) reported that the tow plane released the glider at 2,000 feet above ground level (AGL). Following release, the glider performed soaring maneuvers and turns. It then entered the traffic pattern at 1,000 feet AGL.
Sequence of Events
After turning to the base leg, the CFI observed that the glider was "above glide path." To lose altitude, he performed 360-degree turns. He also stated that these turns were executed "to give time for second glider to launch." While on final approach, the glider rolled "abruptly" to the right at approximately 80 degrees of bank and began to descend. The CFI recovered the glider just above the ground and then noticed that the glider was heading toward a fence line. The glider was able to climb over the fence and began a turn toward the airport.
Impact
The pilot reported that the glider "stalled" and impacted terrain as he attempted to maneuver the glider over a second fence line.