Incident Overview
A pilot reported that during takeoff from an icy ski strip, the airplane experienced a left veer. The pilot noted a "light variable quartering tailwind from the south west" at the time. As the ski and tailwheel-equipped airplane accelerated, it veered left, and the pilot attempted to correct using opposite rudder.
Sequence of Events
Upon becoming airborne, the left wing struck a tree, causing the airplane to "swung around" before it came to rest upright. The accident resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage, both wings, and empennage.
Weather Conditions
An automated weather observation system located approximately 4 miles from the accident airport reported, around the time of the incident, wind from 040° at 13 knots, gusting to 24 knots. The pilot was departing on runway 7.