The pilot of an Citabria 7ECA lost control on the landing roll; struck the ground with the prop during the recovery maneuver and stopped the aircraft just off the runway.

Narrative

The purpose of the flight was to practice crosswind landing techniques in a conventional geared aircraft. The flight was conducted entirely within the pattern and under the control of the tower. The weather was CAVU with the wind variable between 270 to 300 degrees at 14 gusting to 22. Take-off was accomplished from Runway XX without difficulty. Immediately after takeoff tower advised a change in wind to 270 deg with Runway 24 now the active. Three 3-point landings were made on 24 without incident with the wind basically from the west at 14 gusting to 22. On the fourth landing; with the wind reported at 280 degrees 14 gusting to 22 a wheel landing was attempted. All went well until speed decreased and the tail began to drop. At this time the aircraft began to veer right and full left rudder would not compensate. At this point; left brake was used to stop the turn and the aircraft nosed over striking the prop on the paved runway. The turn was stopped and brake was immediately released and stick brought full back. The aircraft came to a stop slightly off the runway but aligned in the proper direction. No ground loop occurred and no part of the aircraft other than the prop and gear contacted the ground. There were no injuries. There was no discernible damage other than the prop.