Accident Details
The pilot reported that during takeoff on runway 34 in a tailwheel-equipped airplane, he lifted the tail during the roll. Shortly thereafter, the airplane turned sharply to the left. The pilot applied right rudder and left aileron control deflection, then applied the right brake and reduced the throttle to idle. The airplane departed the left side of the runway and struck a midfield windsock pole, damaging the left gear. The left wing then contacted the ground, and the airplane slid into a cattle fence, causing substantial damage to the fuselage.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine. He noted that the winds were from 290 degrees at 7 miles per hour.
Pilot's Recommendations
In the recommendation section of the NTSB Pilot/Operator Report, the pilot stated that the accident could have been prevented by keeping the tail on the ground longer for better directional control. He also thought that departing from runway 16 with a slight tailwind, but with a right crosswind to counteract left turning tendencies, might have been a better option.