GIANT SCALE F8F BEARCAT: DID HE BREAK THE GEAR?

This is Vic Catalasan's beautiful 1/5 scale (85 inch wingspan) Grumman F8F Bearcat, built from Jerry Bates plans and featuring a Cowl, Canopy, and Fiberglass Fuse/Belly Pan/Canopy Frame all designed by Vic! The plane is powered by a DLE 120 swinging a 26x14 Propeller.
Here's the link to the plans and various parts that are available:
jbplans.com/pr...
Unfortunately, during the first takeoff attempt, it appeared as though the rudder/tail wheel didn't have enough authority, which caused a ground loop and stressed the gear. You'll have to watch the video to see what happens next....
Let me know in the comments what you think caused the ground loop. Looking forward to hearing from you, Blue skies my friends!

[@ModelAV8RChannel]

Dang, hate he had to belly her in, but he did a good job of it. Looks like the lock broke.

[@JustwingitRC]

He did a good job for sure, textbook belly landing. Yeah, that support strut lock pin broke on the ground loop, and if you look close you can see it dangling while they recovered the model after the 1st attempt. I'm sure Vic will have her patched up in time for Blackstar Canyon at the end of June 😁👍

[@richard1472]

It's that feeling of dread you get as you re-enter the pattern and you realize you're about to do some damage.
No pressure.

[@JustwingitRC]

Indeed my friend, indeed....

[@haroldmclean3755]

The Bear Cat Belly Slide Blues 🐋

[@JustwingitRC]

Indeed my friend 😎👍

[@CJR505]

Short fuselage and a ton of torque. Definitely a handful on takeoff and the landing rollout.

[@JustwingitRC]

Yessir! And I can only imagine the free wheeling tail wheel did more harm than good....

[@hechtspeed]

Ohhhmannnnn :(

[@JustwingitRC]

Yessir....😢

[@tughillrc6327]

Bummer but was a text book belly landing and I am sure it was minor damage. Enjoyed watching.

[@JustwingitRC]

Thanks Tug, I'm sure she'll be patched up in no time 👍