SGS 2-33A strikes an approach path indicator with a wing on takeoff

An instructor and student aboard an SGS 2-33A were unhurt, but the glider substantially damaged, when its right wing struck the junction box of the runway approach path indicator during an aerotow takeoff at Shirley. The takeoff was run along the grass beside the paved runway and begun with the right wing down, as an unassisted launch requires. The wing came up and the glider entered ground effect; seconds later the instructor heard a bang as it bounced. He released the rope and landed straight ahead, and found the right aileron damaged.

1. Unassisted aerotow takeoff: An instructional aerotow was run along the grass strip beside the paved runway at Shirley, with the right wing down at the start as an unassisted launch requires.
2. Wing sweeps the runway equipment: With the wing low and the takeoff path close to the runway edge, the right wing reached the junction box of the approach path indicator.
3. Bang, and the glider bounces: The wing came up and the glider entered ground effect; seconds later the instructor heard a bang as the glider bounced.
4. Releases and lands ahead: The instructor released the tow rope and landed straight down the grass runway without further difficulty.
5. Right aileron damaged: The right aileron was substantially damaged. Neither occupant was hurt.