NTSB Factual Report

During the takeoff roll in a tailwheel-equipped airplane, the private pilot pushed the control yoke forward to lift the tail off the ground. When the tail came up, he lost control and the airplane ground-looped. The flight instructor, who was checking the pilot out in the airplane, tried to regain directional control, but the airplane went off the runway and flipped over causing substantial damage to the airframe. No mechanical issues were reported prior to the loss of control.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain control during takeoff. Contributing to the accident was the check pilot's delayed remedial action.