Incident Overview
A pilot reported that during a takeoff roll from a soft field turf runway, he was not as aggressive as he should have been. According to his account, the airspeed increased and the airplane began to rotate, but without sufficient airspeed to sustain climbing flight. The pilot then pushed the nose over, causing the airplane to settle back onto the runway and bounce. The aircraft subsequently overran the end of the runway, struck a fence, and sustained substantial damage to both wings.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that there were no mechanical failures or anomalies with the airframe, flight controls, or engine that would have prevented normal flight operations.
Manufacturer Guidance
According to the manufacturer's pilot operating handbook, the procedure for a soft-field takeoff includes holding full back pressure during taxi and the initial takeoff roll. If the surface is marginal or too narrow for a gradual turn onto the runway, the pilot should align the airplane with the runway, apply full brakes, and build up takeoff RPM before starting the roll. As full power is applied, the control wheel should be moved to neutral, allowing the airplane to accelerate to 65-70 MPH. Lift-off should be accomplished with light back pressure, and after lift-off, back pressure should be released enough to permit acceleration to the best angle- or rate-of-climb speed as required by obstructions.