Incident Details
According to the pilot of the experimental amateur-built tailwheel-equipped airplane, during the takeoff roll on runway 25, the airplane weathervaned into an 11-knot crosswind from the south. The airplane exited the left side of the runway and struck a precision approach path indicator (PAPI) light. Despite the collision, the pilot continued the takeoff.
During the initial climb, the passenger reported smelling fuel. The pilot remained airborne until the fuel in the right tank was exhausted. The pilot reported being unsure whether the landing gear had been damaged and was unable to contact anyone at the airport to verify its condition. He then flew to a nearby airport, where the tower confirmed that the landing gear appeared undamaged. The pilot subsequently landed the airplane without further incident.
Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right-wing spar and the elevator.
Weather
The nearest METAR to the accident airport, reported at about the time of the incident, indicated wind from 200° at 10 knots.
Mechanical Status
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.