On December 11, 1997, about 1715 eastern standard time, a Cessna 182P, N20710, was substantially damage during takeoff from the Chatham Municipal Airport, Chatham, Massachusetts. The certificated commercial pilot was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and a visual flight rules flight plan had been filed for the flight conducted under 14 CFR Part 91. In the NTSB Form 6120.1/2, the pilot said he performed a pre-flight check of the airplane and an engine run-up. "During the run-up the engine was running smoothly with good temperature and pressures." He then taxied to runway 06, a 3,001 foot asphalt runway. The pilot further stated: "...I rolled onto the runway and applied full power, the airplane had good acceleration. I rotated at 100 MPH when I experienced a power loss. I immediately pulled the throttle and mixture out. After landing I applied heavy braking and elevator back pressure, while maintaining longitudinal control. The aircraft went off the end of the runway on to the grass area. I attempted to make a left turn to avoid the perimeter fence and landed in a four feet wide three foot deep ditch...." In statement on the date of the accident, the pilot said: "...After a ground roll of a 1000 feet I rotated. As I went airborne I experienced a power loss. At that time I executed a landing. I applied heavy braking at which time the aircraft started sliding sideways. I released the brakes and regained forward control. I pumped the brakes and pulled the elevator full back to slow the aircraft....When I reached the grass area the aircraft started to skid to the left. As I almost came to a complete stop the nose wheel [fell] in a ditch..." Examination of the wreckage was performed by a Federal Aviation Administration Inspector. A check of the airplane's fuel system was negative for contaminates and a compression check was performed on all engine cylinders. Additionally, an engine run-up was performed. There were no abnormalities of the airframe or engine found during the examination. A weather observation taken at 1652 reported, Wind from 300 degrees at 4 knots; Visibility 10 miles; Sky Clear, Temperature 34 degrees F; Dew point 34 degrees F; Altimeter 30.08.