Accident Details
During a local solo flight, a student pilot intended to land the glider on runway 23. While on the downwind leg of the airport traffic pattern, the glider was reported as "high at the key." Abeam the runway's end, the pilot noted being "a little high" and deployed the wing spoilers.
Flight Sequence
During the turn to base leg, the pilot remained high and elected to crab into the wind and slip the glider. While on base leg before turning final, the pilot observed that the wind had increased, slowing the glider. Turning final, the pilot perceived that it would be a close approach and considered switching to runway 25 but decided the glider would reach runway 23.
Impact and Damage
The glider struck a tree approximately 25 feet above ground level with the left wing and came to rest short of the runway. Postaccident examination revealed substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage.