Accident Narrative
A pilot reported that while attempting to land a tailwheel-equipped airplane on an upsloping asphalt runway, the aircraft touched down normally. During the landing roll, the airplane began to ground loop. In an effort to recover, the pilot added power, but the airplane continued off the runway surface and encountered a ditch. The left fuselage structure sustained damage as a result.
Pilot Observations
The pilot stated that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine. Wind conditions were described as light and variable.
Pilot Comments on Prevention
In the recommendation section of the NTSB Pilot/Operator Report, the pilot wrote that he should have first practiced landings at the departure airport, as it had been some time since he had flown. He also noted that most of his flight time had been on grass strips, where the airplane maneuvers differently than on asphalt.