NTSB Factual Report

The pilot reported that during takeoff from a grass airstrip, she applied full power and pulled back on the yoke for a soft-field and short-field takeoff. She added that after the nose came off the ground a gust of wind pushed the airplane to the left. The airplane "straddled a drainage ditch until the nose wheel caught on something" and the airplane came to rest inverted.

The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left wing, right wing lift strut, and empennage.

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

A review of recorded data from the automated weather observation station located about 7 miles to the north about the time of the accident reported that the wind was 320° at 11 knots. The airplane was departing runway 18.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during takeoff with a tailwind.