Incident Overview
A glider, after being towed to altitude, was soaring above a mountain peak. The pilot made several circular passes over the peak before the glider began to descend. The pilot then initiated a turn toward an adjacent ridge. As the glider passed over the ridge, the pilot felt the aircraft sink and started a descending right turn. During this turn, the pilot experienced a "jolt" and the glider yawed to the left. The pilot verified that all flight controls were functioning correctly and proceeded with an uneventful straight-in approach and landing at the departure airport.
Postaccident Inspection
A postaccident inspection revealed damage consistent with an in-flight collision with a tree. The glider sustained substantial damage to the left wing spar and aileron during the collision.
Flight Controls and Landing
After the jolt and yaw, the pilot confirmed the flight controls operated normally, allowing for a controlled descent and landing. No further issues were reported during the landing phase.