Incident Overview
A powered-glider pilot reported that, during the return flight to the airport after an informal glider competition, he encountered difficulty maintaining altitude. While flying over mountainous terrain at about 10,000 to 11,000 feet, he was unable to find lift, and the glider descended to 9,000 feet. The pilot then started the sustainer engine, climbed back to the initial altitude, shut the engine off, stowed it, and continued toward the destination airport.
Descent and Engine Restart Attempt
Approximately 4 miles from the airport, the glider began a sink rate of about 1,000 feet per minute. The pilot attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful in the limited time available. He selected a field for an off-airport landing.
Landing and Damage
During landing, the glider touched down on slightly uneven ground, causing the right wing to drag. The glider veered 20° to the right before coming to rest. The accident resulted in substantial damage to the horizontal stabilizer and elevator.
Pilot Report and Weather Conditions
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the glider that would have precluded normal operation. An automated weather observation station located about 14 miles east-southeast of the accident location, at an elevation of 7,950 feet, reported wind from 270° at 10 knots gusting to 15 knots, temperature 79°F, dew point 9°F, and a calculated density altitude of 10,300 feet.