Incident Overview
The pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that during an off-airport takeoff from a surface covered with standing water, the airplane nosed over. According to the pilot, the water created excess drag on the main landing gear, causing the tail to rise and the airplane to pivot forward onto its nose.
Damage Inspection
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the right wing lift strut. No other damage was reported.
Pilot's Observations
The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Safety Recommendations
As a safety recommendation, the pilot suggested adding more weight to the tail, avoiding takeoffs in standing water, and aborting the takeoff attempt at the first signs of trouble.