NTSB Factual Report

The pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported that during the takeoff roll, as the airplane crested a hill about 1/3 of the way down the grass runway, the airplane was close to the right edge of the runway. He added that he could not clearly distinguish the runway edges and applied left rudder, but in doing so, the airplane departed the runway surface to the left and nosed over in rough muddy terrain.

The left wing sustained substantial damage.

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

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll.