On May 2, 2001, at 1320 hours Pacific daylight saving time, a Cessna 177B, N34168, was substantially damaged when it collided with the ground while maneuvering approximately 3 miles east of Santa Maria Airport, Santa Maria, California. The airplane was operated under the provisions of 14 CFR Part 91 by the private pilot/owner who received minor injuries. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed for the personal flight, which departed from Santa Maria Airport approximately 1250. The pilot reported he had been taking photographs about 1,000 feet above ground level, then decided to practice engine out patterns. During the go-around from the second pattern he added power, retracted the flaps to 20 degrees, and was unable to prevent contact with the ground. The pilot further stated that it "felt like the elevator stalled." The airplane struck a pipe, cartwheeled, and came to rest inverted.