Incident Overview
A pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported a loss of directional control during the landing roll, resulting in a ground loop and substantial damage. The incident occurred as the airplane was decelerating after touchdown.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot's account, during the landing roll the tailwheel began to shimmy. In response, the pilot held full aft elevator input to maintain control until the airplane slowed. Once the airplane had decelerated, the pilot "slightly" released the back pressure. At that moment, the airplane suddenly swerved to the right. The pilot was unable to correct the turn, and the airplane ground looped.
Damage
As a result of the ground loop, the left main landing gear collapsed, and the left wing impacted the ground. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage. No preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures were reported by the pilot.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that there were no mechanical issues with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation prior to the event. The exact cause of the tailwheel shimmy was not specified in the report.