Flight Intent and Initial Phase
The pilot stated that the purpose of the flight was to perform several touch-and-go practice takeoffs and landings, followed by practice maneuvers in the local area. The flight began with a departure from the active runway without incident, after which the pilot continued around the traffic pattern.
Touch-and-Go Maneuver
During the subsequent landing, the airplane touched down on its main landing gear. The touchdown point was slightly to the left of the runway centerline. As the nose wheel made contact with the runway surface, the pilot raised the wing flaps. Shortly thereafter, he applied full engine power in an attempt to take off again. The airplane began to veer to the left of the centerline, departed the runway surface, and continued into the adjacent grassy area.
Pilot Response and Collision
Once in the grassy area, the pilot retarded the throttle while simultaneously applying the brakes. The airplane subsequently collided with a sign, which caused the nose wheel to collapse. During the accident sequence, the airplane incurred substantial damage to the firewall.
Mechanical Assessment
There was no report of any preimpact mechanical malfunction or failure with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.