According to the pilot, the right main landing gear struck a deer during takeoff. The pilot reported that the airplane had cleared the deer, "until it bounded up and hit the right wheel." The pilot continued the initial climb and communicated with observers on the ground. He flew near the observers and they confirmed that the landing gear was extended and appeared undamaged. However, the pilot flew to a maintenance facility with the landing gear extended and landed to assess the damage.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the right wing spar.

The pilot reported that there were no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.