Accident Overview
A student pilot was flying a Schweizer SGS 2-33A glider. The flight began with a tow from the airport, and the glider was released at an altitude of 3,000 feet. After release, the pilot maneuvered the glider to the right and flew around the airport while searching for lift. Over the next 30 minutes, the glider's altitude fluctuated between 1,700 feet and 2,800 feet.
Loss of Lift and Decision to Return
When the glider began to lose lift, the pilot decided to return to the airport. However, the glider continued to lose altitude. The student pilot entered the traffic pattern on the crosswind leg.
Final Approach and Maneuvering
As the student pilot turned onto final approach, he maneuvered the glider left of the runway centerline to avoid activity on the right side of the runway. During this maneuvering, he reported that he "overreacted" and turned too far to the left, ending up over a cornfield. He attempted to turn back to the runway but was "too low and slow."
Impact and Damage
The glider impacted the cornfield, resulting in substantial damage to the fuselage.
Pilot Information
The student pilot reported a total of 13 hours of flight experience, of which 1 hour was in the make and model of the glider involved. He reported no mechanical anomalies with the glider prior to the accident.