Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot's failure to maintain directional control during takeoff which resulted in a collision with a runway marker.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the tailwheel-equipped airplane was departing with a gusting, left-quartering headwind. During the takeoff the airplane veered left and struck a runway marker, which jammed the left aileron. The airplane then banked to the right and the right wingtip struck the runway. The pilot then landed the airplane in a field off the side of the runway. During the landing roll, the airplane nosed down. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left aileron. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.