Accident Sequence
The pilot reported landing at a private airstrip earlier in the day and was departing to return to his home airstrip. Before departure, he noted a left crosswind of about 15 mph. The initial takeoff phase was normal, but upon becoming airborne, the wind lifted the left wing, causing the airplane to drift right over an adjacent field at a lower elevation. With the loss of ground effect, the airplane sank, resulting in the tail wheel colliding with the ground. Subsequently, the main landing gear impacted an irrigation pipe and the airplane flipped over inverted.
Damage
During the accident sequence, the airplane sustained substantial damage to both wings.
Pilot's Comments
The pilot stated that the accident could have been prevented if they had waited for the wind to subside and/or performed the takeoff with the wing flaps extended. He also reported that there were no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.