UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
SCHEDULE 14A
PROXY STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 14(a)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 (AMENDMENT NO. )
Filed by the Registrant [X]
Filed by a Party other than the Registrant [ ]
CHECK THE APPROPRIATE BOX:
[ ] Preliminary Proxy Statement [ ] CONFIDENTIAL, FOR USE OF THE
COMMISSION ONLY (AS PERMITTED BY
RULE 14A-6(E)(2))
[X] Definitive Proxy Statement
[ ] Definitive Additional Materials
[ ] Soliciting Material Pursuant to Section 240.14a-12
CHAMPIONSHIP AUTO RACING TEAMS, INC.
(NAME OF REGISTRANT AS SPECIFIED IN ITS CHARTER)
(NAME OF PERSON(S) FILING PROXY STATEMENT, IF OTHER THAN THE REGISTRANT)
PAYMENT OF FILING FEE (CHECK THE APPROPRIATE BOX):
[X] No fee required.
[ ] Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(4) and 0-11.
1) Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies: N/A
2) Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies: N/A
3) Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed
pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (set forth the amount on which the
filing fee is calculated and state how it is determined):
4) Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction:
5) Total fee paid:
[ ] Fee paid previously with preliminary materials.
[ ] Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange Act Rule
0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee was paid
previously. Identify the previous filing by registration statement number,
or the Form or Schedule and the date of its filing.
1) Amount Previously Paid:
2) Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.:
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4) Date Filed:
CHAMPIONSHIP AUTO RACING TEAMS, INC.
5350 LAKESHORE PARKWAY SOUTH DRIVE
INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46268
October 25, 2005
Dear Stockholders:
You are cordially invited to attend our Special Meeting of Stockholders,
which will be held on December 13, 2005 at 10:00 a.m., local time, at the
offices of Baker & Hostetler LLP, 65 East State Street, Suite 2100, Columbus,
Ohio 43215.
At that meeting, you will be asked to approve a Plan of Liquidation and
Dissolution for Championship Auto Racing Teams, Inc. The Board of Directors has
approved the Plan of Liquidation and Dissolution and believes that, if adopted,
it will maximize stockholder value. Because of the uncertainties of finalizing
settlements of our liabilities, it is impossible to predict with certainty the
aggregate net values that will ultimately be distributed to our stockholders or
the timing of distributions if the Plan of Liquidation or Dissolution is
approved. However, it is anticipated that preliminary distribution will be
remitted to our stockholders as soon as possible after stockholder approval has
been obtained.
Our Board of Directors believes that this proposal is in the best interest
of Championship Auto Racing Teams, Inc. and our stockholders and urges you to
vote in favor of this proposal.
Whether or not you plan to attend the meeting, you are encouraged to read
the enclosed Proxy Statement, carefully, and to vote promptly. You may vote over
the Internet, as well as by telephone or by mailing a traditional proxy card.
Voting over the Internet, by phone or by written proxy will ensure your
representation at the Special Meeting if you do not attend in person. Please
review the instructions on the proxy card regarding each of these voting
options.
Sincerely,
/s/ Christopher R. Pook
----------------------------------------
Christopher R. Pook
President and Chief Executive Officer
CHAMPIONSHIP AUTO RACING TEAMS, INC.
5350 LAKEVIEW PARKWAY DRIVE
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46268
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NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
TO BE HELD ON DECEMBER 13, 2005
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TO THE STOCKHOLDERS OF CHAMPIONSHIP AUTO RACING TEAMS, INC.:
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Special Meeting of Stockholders of
Championship Auto Racing Teams, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the "Company" or
"Championship"), will be held on December 13, 2005, at 10:00 a.m. local time, at
the offices of Baker & Hostetler LLP, at Suite 2100, 65 East State Street,
Columbus, Ohio 43215 for the following purposes:
1. To approve the Plan of Liquidation and Dissolution of Championship Auto
Racing Teams, Inc., substantially in the form of Appendix A attached to the
accompanying proxy statement, including the dissolution and liquidation of
Championship contemplated thereby.
2. To transact such other business as may properly come before the Special
Meeting and any adjournments or postponements thereof.
The foregoing items of business are more fully described in the proxy
statement accompanying this Notice.
Only stockholders of record at the close of business on October 19, 2005,
the record date fixed by the Board of Directors, are entitled to notice of and
to vote at the Special Meeting and any adjournment or postponement thereof.
Please submit the proxy as soon as possible so that your shares can be voted at
the meeting in accordance with your instructions. You may submit your proxy (1)
over the Internet, (2) by telephone, or (3) by mail. For specific instructions,
please refer to the Questions and Answers beginning on page 2 of this proxy
statement and the instructions on the proxy card.
By Order of the Board of Directors,
/s/ Christopher R. Pook
----------------------------------------
Christopher R. Pook
President and Chief Executive Officer
Indianapolis, Indiana
October 25, 2005
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QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE SPECIAL MEETING
Q: WHAT PROPOSALS WILL BE VOTED ON AT THE SPECIAL MEETING?
A: The following proposal will be voted on at the Special Meeting:
- The proposal to be voted on is whether to approve the Plan of
Liquidation and Dissolution of Championship Auto Racing Teams, Inc.,
substantially in the form of Appendix A attached to the accompanying
proxy statement ("Plan of Dissolution"), including the dissolution and
liquidation of the Company contemplated thereby.
Q: WHAT WILL HAPPEN IF THE PLAN OF DISSOLUTION IS RATIFIED AND APPROVED?
A: If the Plan of Dissolution is approved, we will file a certificate of
dissolution with the Delaware Secretary of State, which will dissolve the
Company, complete the liquidation of our remaining assets, satisfy our
remaining obligations and make distributions to our stockholders of
available liquidation proceeds. See "Proposal No. 1--To Approve the Plan of
Dissolution--Principal Provisions of the Plan."
Q: WHEN WILL STOCKHOLDERS RECEIVE ANY PAYMENT FROM OUR LIQUIDATION?
A: Subject to stockholder approval of the Plan of Dissolution, we anticipate
that an initial distribution of liquidation proceeds will be made to our
stockholders sometime in late 2005 or early 2006. Thereafter, as we resolve
our potential liability issues, we will distribute available liquidation
proceeds, if any, to stockholders as the Board of Directors deems
appropriate. We anticipate that the majority of the remaining liquidation
proceeds will be distributed over a period of three years in accordance
with Delaware law. See "Proposal No. 1--To Approve the Plan of
Dissolution--Liquidating Distributions; Nature; Amount; Timing."
Q: WHAT IS THE AMOUNT OF THE PAYMENT THAT STOCKHOLDERS WILL RECEIVE FROM OUR
LIQUIDATION?
A: It is not possible to predict with certainty the aggregate net amount that
will ultimately be distributed to our stockholders should the Plan of
Dissolution be approved. As of August 31, 2005, we had approximately $5.1
million of cash and cash equivalents and total liabilities and anticipated
expenses of approximately $1 million. We anticipate continuing to use cash
in the next several months for a number of items, including, but not
limited to, the following:
- ongoing operating expenses;
- expenses incurred in connection with the liquidation;
- professional, legal, consulting and accounting fees.
We currently estimate that the amount ultimately distributed to our
stockholders will be approximately $0.24 to $0.28 per share. See "Proposal
No. 1--To Approve the Plan of Dissolution--General."
Q: WHAT WILL HAPPEN IF THE PLAN OF DISSOLUTION IS NOT APPROVED?
A: If the Plan of Dissolution is not approved, we will continue to operate the
Company until we can liquidate the Company by a subsequent vote of the
stockholders or by other methods such as a judicial liquidation or
bankruptcy.
Q: HOW CAN I VOTE MY SHARES IN PERSON AT THE MEETING?
A: Shares held directly in your name as the stockholder of record may be voted
in person at the special meeting. If you choose to do so, please bring the
enclosed proxy card or proof of identification.
EVEN IF YOU PLAN TO ATTEND THE SPECIAL MEETING, WE RECOMMEND THAT YOU ALSO
SUBMIT YOUR PROXY AS DESCRIBED BELOW SO THAT YOUR VOTE WILL BE COUNTED IF
YOU LATER DECIDE NOT TO ATTEND THE MEETING.
Q: HOW CAN I VOTE MY SHARES WITHOUT ATTENDING THE MEETING?
A: Whether you hold shares directly as the stockholder of record or
beneficially in street name, you may direct
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your vote without attending the meeting. You may vote by granting a proxy
or, for shares held in street name, by submitting voting instructions to
your broker or nominee. In most instances, you will be able to do this over
the Internet, by telephone or mail. Please refer to the summary
instructions below and those included on your proxy card or, for shares
held in street name, the voting instruction card included by your broker or
nominee.
BY INTERNET - If you have Internet access, you may submit your proxy from
any location in the world by following the "Vote by Internet" instructions
on the proxy card.
BY TELEPHONE - If you live in the United States or Canada, you may submit
your proxy by following the "Vote by Telephone" instructions on the proxy
card.
BY MAIL - You may vote by mail by signing your proxy card or, for shares
held in street name, the voting instruction card included by your broker or
nominee and mailing it in the enclosed, postage prepaid and addressed
envelope. If you provide specific voting instructions, your shares will be
voted as you instruct. If you sign but do not provide instructions, your
shares will be voted as described below in "If my Championship shares are
held in "street name" by my broker, will the broker vote the shares on my
behalf?"
Q: CAN I VOTE BY TELEPHONE OR ON THE INTERNET IF I AM NOT A REGISTERED
STOCKHOLDER?
A: If your shares are held in "street name" by a broker or other nominee, you
should check the voting form used by that firm to determine whether you
will be able to vote by telephone or on the Internet.
Q: CAN I CHANGE BY VOTE?
A: You may change your proxy instructions at any time prior to the vote at the
special meeting. For shares held directly in your name, you may accomplish
this by granting a new proxy or by attending the special meeting and voting
in person. Attendance at the meeting will not cause your previously granted
proxy to be revoked unless you specifically so request. For shares held
beneficially by you, you may accomplish this by submitting new voting
instructions to your broker or nominee.
Q: CAN I CHANGE MY VOTE AFTER I HAVE VOTED MY PROXY?
A: Yes. You can change your vote at any time before proxies are voted at the
meeting. You can change your vote in one of three ways. First, you can send
a written notice via registered mail to our President and Chief Executive
Officer, Christopher R. Pook, at our executive offices, stating that you
would like to revoke your proxy. Second, you can complete and submit a new
proxy. If you choose either of these two methods, you must submit the
notice of revocation or the new proxy to us. Third, you can attend the
Special Meeting and vote in person. See "Information Concerning
Solicitation and Voting."
Q: IF MY CHAMPIONSHIP SHARES ARE HELD IN "STREET NAME" BY MY BROKER, WILL THE
BROKER VOTE THE SHARES ON MY BEHALF?
A: A broker will vote Championship shares only if the holder of these shares
provides the broker with instructions on how to vote. Shares held in
"street name" by brokers or nominees who indicate on their proxies that
they do not have discretionary authority to vote such shares as to a
particular matter, referred to as "broker non-votes," will not be voted in
favor of such proposal. The proposal to approve the Plan of Dissolution
requires the affirmative vote of a majority of our outstanding shares
entitled to vote to be approved by our stockholders. Accordingly, broker
non-votes will have the effect of a vote against the proposal. We encourage
all stockholders whose shares are held in street name to provide their
brokers with instructions on how to vote.
Q: CAN I STILL SELL MY SHARES OF CHAMPIONSHIP COMMON STOCK?
A: Yes. Our common stock is now traded on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board
and is no longer listed on the New York Stock Exchange. The OTCBB is a
quotation service that displays real-time quotes, last-sale prices and
volume information in over-the-counter equity securities. We anticipate
that we will request that our common stock be delisted from the OTCBB
immediately prior to the filing of the Certificate of Dissolution
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with the Delaware Secretary of State, which (subject to stockholder
approval of the Plan of Dissolution) we anticipate will occur on or around
December 31, 2005. In addition, we will close our stock transfer books and
discontinue recording transfers of shares of our common stock at the close
of business on the date we file the Certificate of Dissolution with the
Delaware Secretary of State. Thereafter, certificates representing shares
of our common stock will not be assignable or transferable on our books
except by will, intestate succession or operation of law. See "Proposal No.
1--To Approve the Plan of Dissolution--Listing and Trading of the Common
Stock and Interests in the Liquidating Trust or Trusts."
Q: WHO CAN HELP ANSWER MY QUESTIONS?
A: If you have any questions about the Special Meeting or the proposal to be
voted on at the Special Meeting, or if you need additional copies of this
proxy statement or copies of any of our public filings referred to in this
proxy statement, you should contact our Chief Financial Officer, Thomas L.
Carter, at (317) 715-4196. Our public filings can also be accessed at the
Securities and Exchange Commission's web site at www.sec.gov.
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CHAMPIONSHIP AUTO RACING TEAMS, INC.
5350 LAKEVIEW PARKWAY DRIVE
INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA 46268
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PROXY STATEMENT
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FOR THE SPECIAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
TO BE HELD ON DECEMBER 13, 2005
Proxies in the form enclosed with this proxy statement are solicited by the
Board of Directors of Championship Auto Racing Teams, Inc, a Delaware
corporation (the "Company" or "Championship"), for use at our Special Meeting of
Stockholders to be held on December 13, 2005 at 10:00 a.m. local time, or at any
adjournments or postponements thereof, for the purposes set forth in the
accompanying Notice of Special Meeting of Stockholders. The Special Meeting will
be held at the offices of Baker & Hostetler LLP, Columbus, Ohio. Our telephone
number at our principal executive offices is (317) 715-4196.
These proxy solicitation materials were mailed on or about October 26, 2005
to all stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting.
INFORMATION CONCERNING SOLICITATION AND VOTING
RECORD DATE AND VOTING SECURITIES
Stockholders of record as of the record date, October 19, 2005, are
entitled to notice of and to vote at the Special Meeting. As of the record date,
14,718,134 shares of our common stock were issued and outstanding, and no shares
of our preferred stock were outstanding.
REVOCABILITY OF PROXIES
Execution of a proxy will not in any way affect a stockholder's right to
attend the Special Meeting and vote in person. Any stockholder giving a proxy
has the right to revoke it by written notice delivered to our President and
Chief Executive Officer, Christopher R. Pook, at our principal executive offices
at any time before it is exercised by completing and submitting a new proxy card
or by voting in person at the Special Meeting.
VOTING AND SOLICITATION
Each share of common stock outstanding as of the record date will be
entitled to one vote and stockholders may vote in person or by proxy. At the
Special Meeting, a proposal to approve the Plan of Dissolution of Championship,
including the dissolution and liquidation of Championship contemplated thereby,
will be presented. Our Board of Directors knows of no other matters to be
presented at the Special Meeting. If any other matter should be presented at the
Special Meeting upon which a vote may be properly taken, shares represented by
all proxies received by the Board of Directors will be voted with respect
thereto in accordance with the judgment of the persons named as attorneys in the
proxies.
We will bear the cost of soliciting proxies. In addition, we may reimburse
brokerage firms and other persons representing beneficial owners of shares for
their expenses in forwarding solicitation material to such beneficial owners.
Solicitation of proxies by mail may be supplemented by telephone, facsimile,
e-mail or personal solicitation by our directors, officers or regular employees.
We will not pay any additional compensation to such persons for such services.
QUORUM; ABSTENTIONS; BROKER NON-VOTES
The presence in person or by proxy of the holders of a majority of the
outstanding shares of common stock entitled to vote at the Special Meeting is
necessary to establish a quorum for the transaction of business. Votes cast
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by proxy or in person at the Special Meeting will be tabulated by the Inspector
of Elections with the assistance of our transfer agent. The Inspector of
Elections will also determine whether or not a quorum is present. Abstentions
are included in the number of shares present or represented at the Special
Meeting.
Shares held in "street name" by brokers or nominees who indicate on their
proxies that they do not have discretionary authority to vote such shares as to
a particular matter, referred to as "broker non-votes," and shares which abstain
from voting as to a particular matter, will not be voted in favor of such
matter. The proposal to approve the Plan of Dissolution requires the affirmative
vote of a majority of our outstanding shares. Accordingly, abstentions and
broker non-votes will have the effect of a vote against the proposal to approve
the Plan of Dissolution. Broker non-votes will be counted for purposes of
determining the absence or presence of a quorum. We encourage all stockholders
whose shares are held in street name to provide their brokers with instructions
on how to vote.
CAUTION AGAINST FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This proxy statement contains certain forward-looking statements, including
statements concerning the value of our net assets, the anticipated liquidation
value per share of common stock as compared to its market price absent the
proposed liquidation, the timing and amounts of distributions of liquidation
proceeds to stockholders, and the likelihood of stockholder value resulting from
the sale of certain of our significant assets. We intend such forward-looking
statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking
statements contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995,
and are including this statement for purposes of invoking these safe harbor
provisions. Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks,
uncertainties and other important factors that could cause our actual results,
performance or achievements, or industry results, to differ materially from our
expectations of future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied
by such forward-looking statements. These risks include the risk that we may
incur additional liabilities, that the sale of our non-cash assets could be
lower than anticipated, and that the settlement of our liabilities could be
higher than expected, all of which would substantially reduce the distribution
to our stockholders. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in any
forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future events or
results. Except as may be required under federal law, we undertake no obligation
to update publicly any forward-looking statements for any reason, even if new
information becomes available or other events occur.
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PROPOSAL NO. 1
TO APPROVE THE PLAN OF DISSOLUTION
GENERAL
Our Board of Directors is proposing the Plan of Dissolution for approval by
our stockholders at the Special Meeting. The Plan was approved by the Board of
Directors, subject to stockholder approval, on December 13, 2005. A copy of the
Plan of Dissolution is attached as Appendix A to this proxy statement. Certain
material features of the Plan are summarized below. WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO READ THE
PLAN OF DISSOLUTION IN ITS ENTIRETY.
After approval of the Plan of Dissolution, our activities will be limited
to:
- filing a Certificate of Dissolution with the Secretary of State of the
State of Delaware and thereafter remaining in existence as a
non-operating entity for three years (or such longer period as
permitted by law);
- resolving any potential liabilities;
- paying our creditors;
- establishing a contingency reserve for payment of our expenses and
liabilities;
- preparing to make distributions to our stockholders;
- complying with the Securities and Exchange Commission reporting
requirements; and
- completing tax filings.
Delaware law provides that, following the dissolution of Championship, the
Board of Directors may take such actions as it deems necessary in furtherance of
the winding up of Championship's operations and affairs.
As of August 31, 2005, we had approximately $5.1 million of cash and cash
equivalents and our total liabilities and anticipated expenses were
approximately $1 million. In addition to satisfying the liabilities on the
balance sheet, we have used and anticipate continuing to use cash in the next
several months for a number of items, including, but not limited to, the
following:
- ongoing operating expenses;
- expenses incurred in connection with the liquidation;
- professional, legal, consulting and accounting fees.
We currently estimate that the amount ultimately distributed to our
stockholders will be approximately $0.24 to $0.28 per share. The distribution to
our stockholders may be reduced by additional liabilities we may incur, a final
decision on how much we should retain for unanticipated expenses, and the
ultimate settlement amounts of our liabilities. See "Factors to be Considered by
Stockholders in Deciding Whether to Approve the Plan of Dissolution."
Our Board of Directors may, at any time, turn our management over to a
third party to complete the liquidation of our remaining assets and distribute
the proceeds from the sale of assets to our stockholders pursuant to the Plan of
Dissolution. This third-party management may be in the form of a liquidating
trust, which, if adopted, would succeed to all of our assets, liabilities and
obligations. Our Board of Directors may appoint one or more of its members, one
or more of our officers or a third party to act as trustee or trustees of such
liquidating trust. If, however, all of our assets are not distributed within
three years after the date our Certificate of Dissolution is filed with the
Delaware Secretary of State, we will transfer our remaining assets to one or
more liquidating trusts if we have not already done so.
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During the liquidation of our assets and dissolution, we may pay our
officers, director, employees, and agents, or any of them, compensation for
services rendered in connection with the implementation of the Plan of
Dissolution. See "Possible Effects of the Approval of the Plan upon the
Directors and Executive Officers."
The following resolution will be offered at the Special Meeting:
"RESOLVED, THAT THE PLAN OF LIQUIDATION AND DISSOLUTION BE APPROVED AND
THAT THE OFFICERS OF THE COMPANY ARE HEREBY AUTHORIZED AND DIRECTED TO TAKE
SUCH ACTIONS AS THEY DEEM NECESSARY AND APPROPRIATE IN FURTHERANCE OF THIS
RESOLUTION."
BACKGROUND AND REASONS FOR THE PLAN OF DISSOLUTION
Through our subsidiary CART, Inc., we owned, operated and sanctioned
through the 2003 season the open-wheel motorsports series known in 2003 as the
"Bridgestone Presents the Champ Car World Series Powered by Ford." CART, Inc.
was responsible for organizing, marketing and staging each of the races in the
Champ Car World Series. In February 2004, we completed the sale of substantially
all of our operating assets owned by CART, Inc. to Open Wheel Racing Series,
LLC. ("Open Wheel"). Most of our employees resigned and accepted employment with
Open Wheel, and we ceased operations.
On December 16, 2003, CART, Inc. filed a voluntary petition for relief
under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code in the United States
Bankruptcy Court Southern Division of Indiana (In Re: CART, Inc., Case
#03-23385-FJO-11). CART, Inc. operated as debtor in possession under the
Bankruptcy Court in order to wind up its affairs. The bankruptcy plan was
confirmed on September 24, 2004. Pursuant to the CART, Inc. Plan of Dissolution,
on November 23, 2004, all remaining CART, Inc. assets and liabilities were
transferred to the CART Liquidation Trust to be held, pending allowance or
disallowance of disputed claims, and distributed to holders of allowed claims.
All claims, both disputed and non-disputed, at the CART, Inc. level have been
resolved with the exception of one claim. We have been operating the Company
during this period of time to assist in resolution of all claims at the CART,
Inc. level, reducing or resolving claims at the Company level and preparing the
Company for liquidation. We believe that we are now in a position to ask the
stockholders of the Company to vote on the dissolution and liquidation of the
Company.
FACTORS TO BE CONSIDERED BY STOCKHOLDERS IN DECIDING WHETHER TO APPROVE THE PLAN
There are many factors that our stockholders should consider when deciding
whether to vote to approve the Plan of Dissolution. Such factors include those
risk factors set forth below:
WE CANNOT ASSURE YOU OF THE AMOUNT, IF ANY, OF ANY DISTRIBUTION TO OUR
STOCKHOLDERS UNDER THE PLAN OF DISSOLUTION.
Dissolution and liquidation may not create value to our stockholders or
result in any remaining capital for distribution to our stockholders. We cannot
assure you of the precise nature and amount of any distribution to our
stockholders pursuant to the Plan of Dissolution. Uncertainties as to the
precise amount of our liabilities or claims make it difficult to predict with
certainty the aggregate net value, if any, ultimately distributable to our
stockholders.
We entered into a long-term lease for the property we occupied in
Indianapolis, Indiana. In connection with the bankruptcy of CART, Inc., we
sublet property for the remainder of the term to Open Wheel. However, we remain
liable on that lease, and in the event that Open Wheel does not honor its
obligations, we remain liable on such lease, which has future lease payments as
of March 31, 2005 of $1,700,000 and expires on October 31, 2010. We are in the
process of attempting to resolve this potential claim, and if it cannot be
resolved before the Plan of Dissolution is adopted by the stockholders, we will
reserve some amount for any potential liability on behalf of the Company.
In addition, we received a preliminary distribution from CART, Inc. in
connection with its bankruptcy. Depending on the outcome of litigation of a
claim in bankruptcy against CART, Inc., we could be required to refund all or a
portion of the distribution we have reserved for this possibility.
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OUR STOCKHOLDERS COULD VOTE AGAINST THE PLAN OF DISSOLUTION.
Our stockholders could vote against the Plan of Dissolution. If we do not
obtain stockholder approval of the Plan of Dissolution, we would have to
continue our business operations from a difficult position, in light of our
announced intent to liquidate and dissolve.
WE WILL CONTINUE TO INCUR CLAIMS, LIABILITIES AND EXPENSES WHICH WILL
REDUCE THE AMOUNT AVAILABLE FOR DISTRIBUTION TO STOCKHOLDERS.
Claims, liabilities and expenses from operations (such as operating costs,
salaries, directors' and officers' insurance, payroll and local taxes, legal,
accounting and consulting fees and miscellaneous office expenses) will continue
to be incurred as we wind down. These expenses will reduce the amount of assets
available for distribution to stockholders. If available cash and amounts
received on the sale of non-cash assets are not sufficient to provide for our
obligations, liabilities, expenses and claims, we may not be able to distribute
meaningful cash, or any cash at all, to our stockholders.
DISTRIBUTION OF ASSETS, IF ANY, TO OUR STOCKHOLDERS COULD BE DELAYED.
Our Board of Directors has not established a firm timetable for
distributions to our stockholders. However, the Board of Directors intends,
subject to contingencies inherent in winding down our business, to make such
distributions as promptly as practicable. We are currently unable to predict the
precise timing of any distribution. The timing of any distribution will depend
on and could be delayed by, among other things, claim settlements with
creditors. Additionally, a creditor could seek an injunction against the making
of distributions to our stockholders on the ground that the amounts to be
distributed were needed to provide for the payment of our liabilities and
expenses. Any action of this type could delay or substantially diminish the
amount available for distribution to our stockholders.
IF WE FAIL TO CREATE AN ADEQUATE CONTINGENCY RESERVE FOR PAYMENT OF OUR
EXPENSES AND LIABILITIES, OUR STOCKHOLDERS COULD BE HELD LIABLE FOR PAYMENT
TO OUR CREDITORS OF EACH SUCH STOCKHOLDER'S PRO RATA SHARE OF AMOUNTS OWED
TO CREDITORS IN EXCESS OF THE CONTINGENCY RESERVE, UP TO THE AMOUNT
ACTUALLY DISTRIBUTED TO SUCH STOCKHOLDER.
If the Plan of Dissolution is approved by our stockholders, we will file a
Certificate of Dissolution with the State of Delaware dissolving Championship.
Pursuant to the Delaware General Corporation Law, we will continue to exist for
three years after the dissolution becomes effective or for such longer period as
the Delaware Court of Chancery shall direct, for the purpose of prosecuting and
defending suits against us and enabling us gradually to close our business, to
dispose of our property, to discharge our liabilities and to distribute to our
stockholders any remaining assets. Under the Delaware General Corporation Law,
in the event we fail to create an adequate contingency reserve for payment of
our expenses and liabilities but have made distributions to stockholders during
this three-year period, each stockholder could be held liable for payment to our
creditors of such stockholder's pro rata share of amounts owed to creditors in
excess of the contingency reserve, up to the amount actually distributed to such
stockholder.
However, the liability of any stockholder would be limited to the amounts
previously received by such stockholder from us (and from any liquidating trust
or trusts) in the dissolution. Accordingly, in such event a stockholder could be
required to return all distributions previously made to such stockholder
following the filing of the Certificate of Dissolution with the Delaware
Secretary of State. In such event, a stockholder could receive nothing from us
under the Plan of Dissolution. Moreover, in the event a stockholder has paid
taxes on amounts previously received, a repayment of all or a portion of such
amount could result in a stockholder incurring a net tax cost if the
stockholder's repayment of an amount previously distributed does not cause a
commensurate reduction in taxes payable. There can be no assurance that the
contingency reserve established by us will be adequate to cover any expenses and
liabilities. See "Contingent Liabilities; Contingency Reserve; Liquidating
Trust."
OUR STOCK TRANSFER BOOKS WILL CLOSE ON THE DATE WE FILE THE CERTIFICATE OF
DISSOLUTION WITH THE DELAWARE SECRETARY OF STATE, AFTER WHICH IT WILL NOT
BE POSSIBLE FOR STOCKHOLDERS TO PUBLICLY TRADE OUR STOCK.
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We will close our stock transfer books and discontinue recording transfers
of our common stock at the close of business on the date we file the Certificate
of Dissolution with the Delaware Secretary of State, referred to as the "final
record date." Thereafter, certificates representing our common stock shall not
be assignable or transferable on our books except by will, intestate succession
or operation of law. The proportionate interests of all of our stockholders
shall be fixed on the basis of their respective stock holdings at the close of
business on the final record date, and, after the final record date, any
distributions made by us shall be made solely to the stockholders of record at
the close of business on the final record date, except as may be necessary to
reflect subsequent transfers recorded on our books as a result of any
assignments by will, intestate succession or operation of law.
WE WILL CONTINUE TO INCUR THE EXPENSES OF COMPLYING WITH PUBLIC COMPANY
REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.
We have an obligation to continue to comply with the applicable reporting
requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, referred to as
the "Exchange Act," even though compliance with such reporting requirements is
economically burdensome. In order to curtail expenses, we intend to, after
filing our Certificate of Dissolution, seek relief from the Securities and
Exchange Commission from the reporting requirements under the Exchange Act. We
anticipate that, if such relief were granted, we will continue to file current
reports on Form 8-K to disclose material events relating to our liquidation and
dissolution along with any other reports that the Securities and Exchange
Commission might require. However, the Securities and Exchange Commission may
not grant any such relief.
OUR COMMON STOCK HAS BEEN DELISTED FROM THE NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE.
Our common stock was delisted from the New York Stock Exchange. Our common
stock is now traded on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board. The OTCBB is a
regulated quotation service that displays real-time quotes, last-sale prices and
volume information in over-the-counter equity securities. As a result of our
common stock being listed on the OTCBB, rather than the New York Stock Exchange,
your ability to resell your shares of our common stock has been and will
continue to be adversely affected.
POSSIBLE EFFECTS OF THE APPROVAL OF THE PLAN OF DISSOLUTION UPON DIRECTORS AND
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
Following the filing of the Certificate of Dissolution with the Delaware
Secretary of State, we will continue to indemnify each of our current and former
directors and officers to the extent required under Delaware law and our
Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws as in effect immediately prior to the
filing of the Certificate of Dissolution. In addition, we intend to maintain our
current directors' and officers' insurance policy through January 2006.
Other than as set forth above, it is not currently anticipated that our
liquidation will result in any material benefit to any of our executive officers
or to the director who participated in the vote to adopt the Plan of
Dissolution.
PRINCIPAL PROVISIONS OF THE PLAN OF DISSOLUTION
The Plan of Dissolution provides that, following the filing of the
Certificate of Dissolution with the Delaware Secretary of State, the Board of
Directors will liquidate our assets in accordance with applicable provisions of
the Delaware General Corporation Law, including Sections 280 and 281. Without
limiting the flexibility of the Board of Directors, the Board of Directors may,
at its option, instruct our officers to make reasonable provisions to pay all
claims and obligations of the Company, or to follow the procedures set forth in
Sections 280 and 281 of the Delaware General Corporation Law which instruct such
officers to:
If deemed necessary by the Board of Directors for any reason, we may, from
time to time, transfer any of our unsold assets to a trust established for the
benefit of our stockholders, which property would thereafter be sold or
distributed on terms approved by its trustees. If all of our assets (other than
the contingency reserve) are not sold or distributed prior to the third
anniversary of the effectiveness of our dissolution, we will transfer in final
distribution such remaining assets to a trust. The Board of Directors may also
elect in its discretion to transfer the contingency reserve, if any, to such a
trust. Any of such trusts is referred to in this proxy statement as the
"liquidating trust." Notwithstanding the foregoing, to the extent that a
distribution or transfer of any asset cannot be effected without the consent of
a governmental authority, no such distribution or transfer shall be effected
without
10
such consent. In the event of a transfer of assets to the liquidating trust, we
would distribute, pro rata to the holders of our capital stock, beneficial
interests in any such liquidating trust.
It is anticipated that the interests in any such trusts will not be
transferable; therefore, although the recipients of the interests would be
treated for tax purposes as having received their pro rata share of property
transferred to the liquidating trust or trusts and will thereafter take into
account for tax purposes their allocable portion of any income, gain or loss
realized by such liquidating trust or trusts, the recipients of the interests
will not realize the value thereof unless and until such liquidating trust or
trusts distributes cash or other assets to them. The Plan of Dissolution
provides that the Board of Directors may appoint one or more individuals or
entities to act as trustee or trustees of the liquidating trust or trusts and to
cause us to enter into a liquidating trust agreement or agreements with such
trustee or trustees on such terms and conditions as may be approved by the Board
of Directors. For further information relating to liquidating trusts, the
appointment of trustees and the liquidating trust agreements, reference is made
to "Contingent Liabilities; Contingent Reserves; Liquidation Trust."
After the final record date, we will not issue any new stock certificates,
other than replacement certificates. Any person holding options, warrants or
other rights to purchase common stock must exercise such instruments or rights
prior to the final record date. See "Listing and Trading of the Common Stock and
Interests in the Liquidation Trust or Trusts" and "Final Record Date" below.
Following approval of the Plan of Dissolution by our stockholders, a
Certificate of Dissolution will be filed with the State of Delaware dissolving
Championship. Our dissolution will become effective, in accordance with the
Delaware General Corporation Law, upon proper filing of the Certificate of
Dissolution with the Secretary of State or upon such later date as may be
specified in the Certificate of Dissolution. Pursuant to the Delaware General
Corporation Law, we will continue to exist for three years after the dissolution
becomes effective or for such longer period as the Delaware Court of Chancery
shall direct, for the purpose of prosecuting and defending suits, whether civil,
criminal or administrative, by or against us, and enabling us gradually to
settle and close our business, to dispose of and convey our property, to
discharge our liabilities and to distribute to our stockholders any remaining
assets, but not for the purpose of continuing the business for which we were
organized.
ABANDONMENT; AMENDMENT
Under the Plan of Dissolution, the Board of Directors may modify, amend or
abandon the plan, notwithstanding stockholder approval, to the extent permitted
by the Delaware General Corporation Law. We will not amend or modify the Plan of
Dissolution under circumstances that would require additional stockholder
approvals under the Delaware General Corporation Law or the Federal securities
laws without complying with the Delaware General Corporation Law and the Federal
securities laws.
LIQUIDATING DISTRIBUTIONS; NATURE; AMOUNT; TIMING
The Board of Directors has not established a firm timetable for
distributions to stockholders if the Plan of Dissolution is approved by the
stockholders. However, the Board of Directors intends, subject to contingencies
inherent in winding up our business, to make such distributions as promptly as
practicable. Any distributions to the stockholders will be in the form of cash.
The liquidation is expected to be concluded prior to the third anniversary
of the filing of the Certificate of Dissolution in Delaware by a final
liquidating distribution either directly to our stockholders or to a liquidating
trust. The proportionate interests of all of our stockholders shall be fixed on
the basis of their respective stock holdings at the close of business on the
final record date, and after such date, any distributions made by us shall be
made solely to stockholders of record on the close of business on the final
record date, except to reflect permitted transfers. The Board of Directors is,
however, currently unable to predict the precise nature, amount or timing of
this distribution or any other distributions pursuant to the Plan of
Dissolution. The actual nature, amount and timing of all distributions will be
determined by the Board of Directors or a trustee designated by the Board, in
its sole discretion, and will depend in part upon our ability to settle our
remaining liabilities and obligations. See "Factors to be Considered by
Stockholders in Deciding Whether to Approve the Plan."
In lieu of satisfying all of our liabilities and obligations prior to
making distributions to our stockholders, we may instead reserve assets deemed
by management and the Board of Directors to be adequate to provide for such
liabilities and obligations. See "Contingent Liabilities; Contingency Reserve;
Liquidation Trust."
11
Uncertainties as to the ultimate amount of our liabilities make it
impracticable to predict the aggregate net value ultimately distributable to
stockholders. Claims, liabilities and expenses from operations (including
operating costs, salaries, income taxes, payroll and local taxes, legal,
accounting and consulting fees and miscellaneous office expenses), although
currently declining, will continue to be incurred following stockholder approval
of the Plan of Dissolution. These expenses will reduce the amount of assets
available for ultimate distribution to stockholders, and, while a precise
estimate of those expenses cannot currently be made, management and the Board of
Directors believe that available cash and amounts received on the sale of assets
will be adequate to provide for our obligations, liabilities, expenses and
claims (including contingent liabilities) and to make cash distributions to
stockholders. However, no assurances can be given that available cash and
amounts received on the sale of assets will be adequate to provide for our
obligations, liabilities, expenses and claims and to make cash distributions to
stockholders. If such available cash and amounts received on the sale of assets
are not adequate to provide for our obligations, liabilities, expenses and
claims, distributions of cash and other assets to our stockholders will be
reduced and could be eliminated. See "Factors to be Considered by Stockholders
in Deciding Whether to Approve the Plan."
Following is a table showing management's estimate of cash proceeds and
outlays and of our ultimate distribution to stockholders as of the date of this
proxy statement. The following estimates are not guarantees and they do not
reflect the total range of possible outcomes. See "Factors to be Considered by
Stockholders in Deciding Whether to Approve the Plan" for a discussion of the
risk factors related to the Plan of Dissolution and any potential proceeds which
we may be able to distribute to stockholders.
ESTIMATED DISTRIBUTION TO STOCKHOLDERS
Cash and Cash Equivalents as of August 31, 2005 $ 5,064,000
Estimated Cash Proceeds and Outlays
Operating cash use September 2005 through November 2005(1) $ 450,000
Interest Income(2) $ 15,000
Accounts Payable(3) $ 37,000
Professional Fees (attorneys, accountants, trustee, other)(4) $ 300,000
Wind-Up Expenses $ 200,000
Estimated Cash to Distribute to Stockholders $ 4,092,000
Estimated Cash to Distribute to Stockholders with a $500,000 reserve. $ 3,592,000
Shares Outstanding as of June 30, 2005 14,718,134
Estimated Per Share Distribution Low $ 0.24
High $ 0.28
----------
(1) Estimated operating expenses for the period June 30, 2005 through November
30, 2005 for personnel, facilities and other expenses to conduct the windup
operations of Championship but exclusive of all other line items
specifically allocated in the table above.
(2) Estimated cash to be generated from Interest income.
(3) Estimated cash use for the payment of accounts payable. As of August 31,
2005, Championship had $37,000 of accounts payable.
(4) Estimated cash use for professional fees related to the liquidation and
dissolution of the business as well as ongoing SEC reporting requirements.
The estimate includes $200,000 in legal fees and $100,000 in accounting,
trustee and other professional fees related to our dissolution.
CONDUCT OF CHAMPIONSHIP FOLLOWING ADOPTION OF THE PLAN OF DISSOLUTION
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Following approval of the Plan of Dissolution by our stockholders, our
activities will be limited to (1) resolving our remaining contingent liabilities
and claims, (2) terminating any of our remaining commercial agreements,
relationships or outstanding obligations, (3) establishing a contingency reserve
for payment of our expenses and liabilities, including liabilities incurred but
not paid or settled prior to approval of the Plan of Dissolution, and (4)
distributing our assets in accordance with the Plan of Dissolution. Following
the approval of the Plan of Dissolution by our stockholders, we shall continue
to indemnify our officers, directors, employees and agents in accordance with
our Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws, including for actions taken in
connection with the Plan of Dissolution and the winding up of our affairs. Our
obligation to indemnify such persons may be satisfied out of the assets of any
liquidating trust. The Board of Directors and the trustees of any liquidating
trust may obtain and maintain such insurance as may be necessary to cover our
indemnification obligations under the Plan of Dissolution.
Whether or not the Plan of Dissolution is approved, we have an obligation
to continue to comply with the applicable reporting requirements of the Exchange
Act, even though compliance with such reporting requirements is economically
burdensome. If the Plan of Dissolution is ratified and approved, in order to
curtail expenses, we will, after filing our Certificate of Dissolution, seek
relief from the Securities and Exchange Commission from the reporting
requirements under the Exchange Act. We anticipate that, if such relief is
granted, we would continue to file current reports on Form 8-K to disclose
material events relating to our liquidation and dissolution along with any other
reports that the Securities and Exchange Commission might require.
CONTINGENT LIABILITIES; CONTINGENCY RESERVE; LIQUIDATING TRUST
Under the Delaware General Corporation Law, we are required, in connection
with our dissolution, to pay or make reasonable provision for payment of all of
our liabilities and obligations. Following the approval of the Plan of
Dissolution by our stockholders, we will pay all expenses and fixed and other
known liabilities, or set aside as a contingency reserve, cash and other assets
which we believe to be adequate for payment thereof. We are currently unable to
estimate with precision the amount of any contingency reserve which may be
required, but any such amount (in addition to any cash contributed to a
liquidating trust, if one is utilized) will be deducted before the determination
of amounts available for distribution to stockholders.
The actual amount of the contingency reserve will be based upon estimates
and opinions of management and the Board of Directors and derived from
consultations with outside experts and review of our estimated operating
expenses and future estimated liabilities, including, without limitation,
anticipated compensation payments, product warranty obligations, estimated
legal, accounting and consulting fees, operating lease expenses, payroll and
other taxes payable, miscellaneous office expenses, expenses accrued in our
financial statements, and reserves for litigation expenses. There can be no
assurance that the contingency reserve in fact will be sufficient. We have not
made any specific provision for an increase in the amount of the contingency
reserve. Subsequent to the establishment of the contingency reserve, we will
distribute to our stockholders any portions of the contingency reserve which we
deem no longer to be required. After the liabilities, expenses and obligations
for which the contingency reserve is established have been satisfied in full, we
will distribute to our stockholders any remaining portion of the contingency
reserve.
If deemed necessary, appropriate or desirable by the Board of Directors for
any reason, we may, from time to time, transfer any of our unsold assets to one
or more liquidating trusts, or other structure we deem appropriate, established
for the benefit of our stockholders, which property would thereafter be sold or
distributed on terms approved by its trustees. The Board of Directors and
management may determine to transfer assets to a liquidating trust in
circumstances where the nature of an asset is not susceptible to distribution
(for example, interests in intangibles) or where the Board of Directors
determines that it would not be in the best interests of us and our stockholders
for such assets to be distributed directly to the stockholders at such time. If
all of our assets (other than the contingency reserve) are not sold or
distributed prior to the third anniversary of the effectiveness of the
dissolution, we must transfer in final distribution such remaining assets to a
liquidating trust. The Board of Directors may also elect in its discretion to
transfer the contingency reserve, if any, to such a liquidating trust. It is not
anticipated that any of these events will occur.
The purpose of a liquidating trust would be to distribute such property or
to sell such property on terms satisfactory to the liquidating trustees, and
distribute the proceeds of such sale after paying our liabilities, if any,
assumed by the trust, to our stockholders. Any liquidating trust acquiring all
of our unsold assets will assume all of
13
our liabilities and obligations and will be obligated to pay any of our expenses
and liabilities which remain unsatisfied. If the contingency reserve transferred
to the liquidating trust is exhausted, such expenses and liabilities will be
satisfied out of the liquidating trust's other unsold assets.
The Plan of Dissolution authorizes the Board of Directors to appoint one or
more individuals or entities to act as trustee or trustees of the liquidating
trust or trusts and to cause us to enter into a liquidating trust agreement or
agreements with such trustee or trustees on such terms and conditions as may be
approved by the Board of Directors. It is anticipated that the Board of
Directors will select such trustee or trustees on the basis of the experience of
such individual or entity in administering and disposing of assets and
discharging liabilities of the kind to be held by the liquidating trust or
trusts and the ability of such individual or entity to serve the best interests
of our stockholders.
We may decide to use a liquidating trust or trusts, and the Board of
Directors believes the flexibility provided by the Plan of Dissolution with
respect to the liquidating trusts to be advisable. The trust would be evidenced
by a trust agreement between us and the trustees. The purpose of the trust would
be to serve as a temporary repository for the trust property prior to its
disposition or distribution to our stockholders. The transfer to the trust and
distribution of interests therein to our stockholders would enable us to divest
ourselves of the trust property and permit our stockholders to enjoy the
economic benefits of ownership thereof. Pursuant to the trust agreement, the
trust property would be transferred to the trustees immediately prior to the
distribution of interests in the trust to our stockholders, to be held in trust
for the benefit of the stockholder beneficiaries subject to the terms of the
trust agreement. It is anticipated that the interests would be evidenced only by
the records of the trust and there would be no certificates or other tangible
evidence of such interests and that no holder of our common stock would be
required to pay any cash or other consideration for the interests to be received
in the distribution or to surrender or exchange shares of our common stock in
order to receive the interests.
It is further anticipated that pursuant to the trust agreements:
- a majority of the trustees would be required to be independent of our
management;
- approval of a majority of the trustees would be required to take any
action; and
- the trust would be irrevocable and would terminate after, the earliest
of (x) the trust property having been fully distributed, or (y) a
majority in interest of the beneficiaries of the trust, or a majority
of the trustees, having approved of such termination, or (z) a
specified number of years having elapsed after the creation of the
trust.
UNDER THE DELAWARE GENERAL CORPORATION LAW, IN THE EVENT WE FAIL TO CREATE
AN ADEQUATE CONTINGENCY RESERVE FOR PAYMENT OF OUR EXPENSES AND LIABILITIES, OR
SHOULD SUCH CONTINGENCY RESERVE AND THE ASSETS HELD BY THE LIQUIDATING TRUST OR
TRUSTS BE EXCEEDED BY THE AMOUNT ULTIMATELY FOUND PAYABLE IN RESPECT OF EXPENSES
AND LIABILITIES, EACH STOCKHOLDER COULD BE HELD LIABLE FOR THE REPAYMENT TO
CREDITORS OUT OF THE AMOUNTS THERETOFORE RECEIVED BY SUCH STOCKHOLDER FROM US OR
FROM THE LIQUIDATING TRUST OR TRUSTS OF SUCH STOCKHOLDER'S PRO RATA SHARE OF
SUCH EXCESS.
If we were held by a court to have failed to make adequate provision for
our expenses and liabilities or if the amount ultimately required to be paid in
respect of such liabilities exceeded the amount available from the contingency
reserve and the assets of the liquidating trust or trusts, a creditor of ours
could seek an injunction against the making of distributions under the Plan of
Dissolution on the grounds that the amounts to be distributed were needed to
provide for the payment of our expenses and liabilities. Any such action could
delay or substantially diminish the cash distributions to be made to
stockholders under the Plan of Dissolution.
FINAL RECORD DATE
We intend to close our stock transfer books and discontinue recording
transfers of shares of our common stock on the final record date, and thereafter
certificates representing shares of our common stock will not be assignable or
transferable on our books except by will, intestate succession or operation of
law. After the final record date, we will not issue any new stock certificates,
other than replacement certificates. It is anticipated that no further trading
of our shares will occur on or after the final record date. See "Listing and
Trading of the Common Stock and Interests in the Liquidation Trust or Trusts"
below.
14
REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
All liquidating distributions from us or a liquidating trust on or after
the final record date will be made to stockholders according to their holdings
of common stock as of the final record date. Subsequent to the final record
date, we may at our election require stockholders to surrender certificates
representing their shares of the common stock in order to receive subsequent
distributions. Stockholders should not forward their stock certificates before
receiving instructions to do so. If surrender of stock certificates is required,
all distributions otherwise payable by us or the liquidating trust, if any, to
stockholders who have not surrendered their stock certificates may be held in
trust for such stockholders, without interest, until the surrender of their
certificates (subject to escheat pursuant to the laws relating to unclaimed
property). If a stockholder's certificate evidencing the common stock has been
lost, stolen or destroyed, the stockholder may be required to furnish us with
satisfactory evidence of the loss, theft or destruction thereof, together with a
surety bond or other indemnity, as a condition to the receipt of any
distribution.
LISTING AND TRADING OF THE COMMON STOCK AND INTERESTS IN THE LIQUIDATING TRUST
OR TRUSTS
Our common stock is now traded on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board. The
OTCBB is a quotation service that displays real-time quotes, last-sale prices
and volume information in over-the-counter equity securities. We anticipate that
we will request that our common stock be delisted from the OTCBB on the final
record date. We also currently intend to close our stock transfer books on the
final record date and to cease recording stock transfers and issuing stock
certificates (other than replacement certificates) at such time. Accordingly, it
is expected that trading in the shares will cease on and after the final record
date.
Thereafter, our stockholders will not be able to transfer their shares. It
is anticipated that the interests in a liquidating trust or trusts will not be
transferable, although no determination has yet been made. Such determination
will be made by the Board of Directors and management prior to the transfer of
unsold assets to the liquidating trust and will be based on, among other things,
the Board of Directors' and management's estimate of the value of the assets
being transferred to the liquidating trust or trusts, tax matters and the impact
of compliance with applicable securities laws.
The costs of compliance with such requirements would reduce the amount
which otherwise could be distributed to interest holders. Even if transferable,
the interests are not expected to be listed on a national securities exchange or
quoted through Nasdaq, and the extent of any trading market therein cannot be
predicted. Moreover, the interests may not be accepted by commercial lenders as
security for loans as readily as more conventional securities with established
trading markets. As stockholders will be deemed to have received a liquidating
distribution equal to their pro rata share of the value of the net assets
distributed to an entity which is treated as a liquidating trust for tax
purposes (see "Material United States Federal Income Tax Consequences"), the
distribution of non-transferable interests could result in tax liability to the
interest holders without their being readily able to realize the value of such
interests to pay such taxes or otherwise.
ABSENCE OF APPRAISAL RIGHTS
Under the Delaware General Corporation Law, our stockholders are not
entitled to appraisal rights for their shares of common stock in connection with
the transactions contemplated by the Plan of Dissolution.
REGULATORY APPROVALS
No United States Federal or state regulatory requirements must be complied
with or approvals obtained in connection with the liquidation.
MATERIAL UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES
The following discussion is a general summary of the material United States
Federal income tax consequences affecting our stockholders that are anticipated
to result from the receipt of distributions pursuant to our dissolution and
liquidation. This discussion does not purport to be a complete analysis of all
the potential tax effects. Moreover, the discussion does not address the tax
consequences that may be relevant to particular categories of our stockholders
subject to special treatment under certain Federal income tax laws (such as
dealers in securities, banks, insurance companies, tax-exempt organizations,
mutual funds, foreign individuals and entities,
15
and persons who acquired their Championship stock upon exercise of stock options
or in other compensatory transactions). It also does not address any tax
consequences arising under the laws of any state, local or foreign jurisdiction.
The discussion is based upon the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended,
Treasury Regulations, Internal Revenue Service rulings, and judicial decisions
now in effect, all of which are subject to change at any time; any such changes
may be applied retroactively. Distributions pursuant to the Plan of Dissolution
may occur at various times and in more than one tax year. No assurance can be
given that the tax treatment described herein will remain unchanged at the time
of such distributions. The following discussion has no binding effect on the
Internal Revenue Service or the courts and assumes that we will liquidate in
accordance with the Plan of Dissolution in all material respects.
No ruling has been requested from the Internal Revenue Service with respect
to the anticipated tax consequences of the Plan of Dissolution, and we will not
seek an opinion of counsel with respect to the anticipated tax consequences. If
any of the anticipated tax consequences described herein prove to be incorrect,
the result could be increased taxation at the corporate and/or stockholder
level, thus reducing the benefit to us and our stockholders from the
liquidation. Tax considerations applicable to particular stockholders may vary
with and be contingent on the stockholder's individual circumstances.
Federal Income Taxation of Championship. After the approval of the Plan of
Dissolution and until the liquidation is completed, we will continue to be
subject to Federal income taxation on our taxable income, if any, such as
interest income, gain from the sale of our assets or income from operations. We
will recognize gain or loss with respect to the sale of our assets in an amount
equal to the fair market value of the consideration received for each asset over
our adjusted tax basis in the asset sold. In addition, although we currently do
not intend to make distributions of property other than cash, in the event of a
distribution of property, we may recognize gain upon such distribution of
property. We will be treated as if we had sold any such distributed property to
the distributee-stockholder for its fair market value on the date of the
distribution.
Federal Income Taxation of our Stockholders. Amounts received by
stockholders pursuant to the Plan of Dissolution will be treated as full payment
in exchange for their shares of our common stock. Stockholders will recognize
gain or loss equal to the difference between (1) the sum of the amount of cash
distributed to them and the fair market value (at the time of distribution) of
property, if any, distributed to them, and (2) their tax basis for their shares
of our common stock. A stockholder's tax basis in his or her shares will depend
upon various factors, including the stockholder's cost and the amount and nature
of any distributions received with respect thereto.
A stockholder's gain or loss will be computed on a "per share" basis. If we
make more than one liquidating distribution, each liquidating distribution will
be allocated proportionately to each share of stock owned by a stockholder. The
value of each liquidating distribution will be applied against and reduce a
stockholder's tax basis in his or her shares of stock. Gain will be recognized
as a result of a liquidating distribution to the extent that the aggregate value
of the distribution and prior liquidating distributions received by a
stockholder with respect to a share exceeds his or her tax basis for that share.
Any loss will generally be recognized only when the final distribution from us
has been received and then only if the aggregate value of all liquidating
distributions with respect to a share is less than the stockholder's tax basis
for that share. Gain or loss recognized by a stockholder will be capital gain or
loss provided the shares are held as capital assets, and will be long term
capital gain or loss if the stock has been held for more than one year.
Although we currently do not intend to make distributions of property other
than cash, in the event of a distribution of property, the stockholder's tax
basis in such property immediately after the distribution will be the fair
market value of such property at the time of distribution. The gain or loss
realized upon the stockholder's future sale of that property will be measured by
the difference between the stockholder's tax basis in the property at the time
of such sale and the proceeds of such sale.
After the close of its taxable year, we will provide stockholders and the
Internal Revenue Service with a statement of the amount of cash distributed to
our stockholders and our best estimate as to the value of any property
distributed to them during that year. There is no assurance that the Internal
Revenue Service will not challenge our valuation of any property. As a result of
such a challenge, the amount of gain or loss recognized by stockholders might be
changed. Distributions of property other than cash to stockholders could result
in tax liability to any given stockholder exceeding the amount of cash received,
requiring the stockholder to meet the tax obligations from other sources or by
selling all or a portion of the assets received.
16
If a stockholder is required to satisfy any liability of ours not fully
covered by our contingency reserve (see "Contingent Liabilities; Contingency
Reserve; Liquidation Trust"), payments by stockholders in satisfaction of such
liabilities would generally produce a capital loss, which, in the hands of
individual stockholders, could not be carried back to prior years to offset
capital gains realized from liquidating distributions in those years.
Liquidating Trusts. If we transfer assets to a liquidating trust or trusts,
we intend to structure such trust or trusts so that stockholders will be treated
for tax purposes as having received their pro rata share of the property
transferred to the liquidating trust or trusts, reduced by the amount of known
liabilities assumed by the liquidating trust or trusts or to which the property
transferred is subject. Assets transferred to a liquidating trust will cause the
stockholder to be treated in the same manner for Federal income tax purposes as
if the stockholder had received a distribution directly from us. The liquidating
trust or trusts themselves will not be subject to Federal income tax. After
formation of the liquidating trust or trusts, the stockholders must take into
account for Federal income tax purposes their allocable portion of any income,
gain or loss recognized by the liquidating trust or trusts. As a result of the
transfer of property to the liquidating trust or trusts and the ongoing
operations of the liquidating trust or trusts, stockholders should be aware that
they may be subject to tax, whether or not they have received any actual
distributions from the liquidating trust or trusts with which to pay such tax.
THE TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE PLAN OF DISSOLUTION MAY VARY DEPENDING UPON THE
PARTICULAR CIRCUMSTANCES OF THE STOCKHOLDER. WE RECOMMEND THAT EACH STOCKHOLDER
CONSULT ITS OWN TAX ADVISOR REGARDING THE FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE
PLAN OF DISSOLUTION AS WELL AS THE STATE, LOCAL AND FOREIGN TAX CONSEQUENCES.
EFFECT OF LIQUIDATION
THE METHODS USED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND MANAGEMENT IN ESTIMATING THE
VALUES OF OUR POTENTIAL LIABILITIES ARE INEXACT AND MAY NOT APPROXIMATE VALUES
ACTUALLY INCURRED. OUR ASSESSMENT ASSUMES THAT ESTIMATES OF OUR LIABILITIES AND
OPERATING COSTS ARE ACCURATE, BUT THOSE ESTIMATES ARE SUBJECT TO NUMEROUS
UNCERTAINTIES BEYOND OUR CONTROL AND ALSO DO NOT REFLECT ANY CONTINGENT OR
UNMATURE LIABILITIES THAT MAY MATERIALIZE OR MATURE. FOR ALL THESE REASONS,
ACTUAL NET PROCEEDS DISTRIBUTED TO STOCKHOLDERS IN LIQUIDATION MAY BE
SIGNIFICANTLY LESS THAN THE ESTIMATED AMOUNT DISCUSSED IN THIS PROXY STATEMENT.
MOREOVER, NO ASSURANCE CAN BE GIVEN THAT ANY AMOUNTS TO BE RECEIVED BY OUR
STOCKHOLDERS IN LIQUIDATION WILL EQUAL OR EXCEED THE PRICE OR PRICES AT WHICH
OUR COMMON STOCK HAS RECENTLY TRADED OR MAY TRADE IN THE FUTURE.
VOTE REQUIRED AND BOARD RECOMMENDATION
The approval of the Plan of Dissolution requires the affirmative vote of
the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of our common stock.
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS BELIEVES THAT THE PLAN OF DISSOLUTION IS IN THE BEST
INTERESTS OF OUR STOCKHOLDERS AND RECOMMENDS A VOTE "FOR" THIS PROPOSAL. IT IS
INTENDED THAT THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THE ENCLOSED FORM OF PROXY WILL BE VOTED
IN FAVOR OF THIS PROPOSAL UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED IN SUCH PROXY.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT
The following tables set forth certain information with respect to
beneficial ownership of our common stock as of the record date (except as
otherwise indicated), by: (i) each person who is known by us to own beneficially
more than five percent of our common stock; (ii) each of our current executive
officers and each other individual who was one of our five most highly
compensated executive officers during 2004; (iii) our sole director; and (iv)
all current directors and executive officers as a group. Except as indicated in
the footnotes to this table, the persons named in the table have sole voting and
investment power with respect to all shares of common stock shown as
beneficially owned by them, subject to community property laws where applicable.
Applicable percentage ownership in the following table is based on the sum
of 14,718,134 shares of common stock outstanding as of the record date and the
number of shares of common stock issuable to entities and individuals indicated
below pursuant to their options and exercisable within 60 days of the record
date, of which there are none.
17
AGGREGATE NUMBER PER CENT OF
OF SHARES SHARES
NAME AND ADDRESS BENEFICIALLY OWNED OUTSTANDING
---------------- ------------------ -----------
Gerald R. Forsythe (1) 3,377,400 22.95%
Forsythe Racing, Inc.
Indeck Energy Services, Inc.
1111 South Willis Avenue
Wheeling, IL 60090
FMR Corp. (2) 1,471,600 9.99%
Edward C. Johnson, III
Abigail P. Johnson
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Couchman Partners, L.P. 1,369,000 9.30%
James Frett Building
P.O. Box 761
Wickhams Cay 1, Road Town
Tortola, British Virgin Islands
Jonathan P. Vannini (3) 1,255,000 8.53%
828 Irwin Drive
Hillsborough, CA 94010
S. Muoio & Co. LLC (4) 884,400 6.0%
509 Madison Avenue, Suite 406
New York, NY 10022
Gryphon Master Fund L.P. (5) 884,400 6.0%
500 Crescent Court, Suite 270
Dallas, TX 75201
Wheatons Holdings Limited (6) 920,900 6.3%
17485 McLaren Road
Caledon Ontario
Canada LON 1C0
Kellogg Capital Group, LLC (7) 759,700 5.2%
14 Wall Street, 27th Floor
New York, NY 10005
----------
(1) We have received this information regarding share ownership from the
Schedule 13D/A that was filed with the SEC on September 12, 2002, and
subsequent Form 4 filed with the SEC in February 2003. Mr. Forsythe has
agreed to vote and exchange all shares he or his affiliated entities has
acquired in excess of 15% of the outstanding stock consistent with the
recommendations of the Board of Directors of Championship Auto Racing
Teams, Inc. on all strategic matters for a period of three years from
September 12, 2002.
(2) We have received this information regarding share ownership from the
Schedule 13G/A that was filed with the SEC on February 17, 2004.
18
(3) We have received this information regarding share ownership from the
Schedule 13D/A that was filed with the SEC on November 29, 2001.
(4) We have received this information regarding share ownership from the
Schedule 13G that was filed with the SEC on October 5, 2005.
(5) We have received this information regarding share ownership from the
Schedule 13G/A that was filed with the SEC on February 9, 2004.
(6) We have received this information regarding share ownership from the
Schedule 13G that was filed with the SEC on August 15, 2003.
(7) We have received this information regarding share ownership from the
Schedule 13G that was filed with the SEC on February 8, 2005.
The following table shows the amount of common stock of Championship Auto
Racing Teams, Inc. beneficially owned (unless otherwise indicated) by the sole
director of Championship Auto Racing Teams, Inc. the executive officers of
Championship Auto Racing Teams, Inc. named in the Summary Compensation Table,
and the sole director and executive officers of Championship Auto Racing Teams,
Inc. as a group. Except as otherwise indicated, all information is as of August
31, 2005.
The number of shares beneficially owned by each director or executive
officer is determined under rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission, and
the information is not necessarily indicative of beneficial ownership for any
other purpose. Under such rules, beneficial ownership includes any shares as to
which the individual has the sole or shared voting power or investment power and
also any shares which the individual has the right to acquire as of August 31,
2005 through the exercise of stock options or other rights. Unless otherwise
indicated, each person has sole investment and voting power (or shares such
powers with his/her spouse) with respect to the shares set forth in the
following table.
AMOUNT AND PERCENT OF
NATURE OF SHARES
NAME BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP OUTSTANDING
---- -------------------- -----------
Christopher R. Pook ............................... 0 *
Thomas L. Carter .................................. 3,000 Direct *
Sole director and executive officers as a group ... 3,000 Direct *
----------
* Represents less than 1% of the Company's outstanding common stock.
SECTION 16(A) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE
Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 requires our
directors, executive officers and holders of more than 10% of our common stock
to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission reports regarding their
ownership and changes in ownership of our stock. The Company believes that
during fiscal 2004, its executive officers and directors complied with all
Section 16(a) filing requirements. In making this statement, the Company has
relied upon the written representations of its directors and officers.
The following table sets forth certain information with respect to each
director and executive officer of the Company as of August 31, 2005:
DIRECTOR
NAME PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION DURING THE LAST FIVE YEARS AGE SINCE
---- ----------------------------------------------- --- --------
Christopher R. Pook, Mr. Pook has served as President and CEO of the Company 65 January 2002
President and Chief since December 2001. Prior to joining the Company, Mr.
19
Executive Officer, Pook served as President of the Grand Prix Association of
Director Long Beach, Inc., a subsidiary of Dover Downs, Entertainment,
Inc.
Thomas L. Carter Mr. Carter was elected Chief Financial Officer in October 50 --
Chief Financial Officer 2000 and was first named Vice President of Finance and
Administration of CART, Inc. in March 1998 after serving as
Director of Finance since February 1997. Mr. Carter is a
certified public accountant.
EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The following table discloses compensation received by each person who
served as CART's Chief Executive Officer during 2004 and its other four most
highly paid executive officer for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004, as
well as their compensation for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2003 and
2002.
SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE
LONG TERM COMPENSATION
AWARDS
-------------------------
SECURITIES
ANNUAL COMPENSATION UNDERLYING
--------------------------- OTHER ANNUAL OPTIONS/ ALL OTHER
NAME AND PRINCIPAL POSITION SALARY ($) BONUS ($) COMPENSATION SARSE (#) COMPENSATION
--------------------------- --------------- --------- ------------ ---------- ------------
Christopher R. Pook (1) 2004 $455,000 $ 0 (2) 0 $28,745(3)
President and CEO 2003 $450,000 $ 67,000 0 $29,792
2002 $375,000 $169,000 250,000 $20,000
Thomas L. Carter (1) 2004 $215,000 $ 0 (2) 0 $ 8,550(3)
Chief Financial Officer 2003 $210,000 $ 0 0 $10,747
2002 $210,000 $ 0 40,000 $ 5,330
(1) Mr. Pook and Mr. Carter have entered into employment agreements whereby
they will be paid an annual base salary of $450,000 and $210,000
respectively through June 30, 2005. Mr. Pook has agreed to reduce his
salary and benefits to $15,769.25 per month for July 1, 2005, until
November 30, 2005. Mr. Carter has agreed to reduce his salary and benefits
to $12,692.25 per month commencing July 1, 2005, until November 30, 2005.
(2) The aggregate amount of perquisite compensation to be reported herein is
less than the lesser of $50,000 or 10% of the total annual salary and bonus
reported for the named executive officer. No other annual compensation was
paid or payable to the named executive officers in the years indicated.
(3) Includes the payment of term life insurance premiums on behalf of the named
executive officer, as follows: Mr. Pook ($17,365); and Mr. Carter ($900).
Includes the contributions to 401(k) plans on behalf of the named executive
officers, as follows: Mr. Pook ($538) and Mr. Carter ($714). Includes car
allowance to the named executive officers, as follows: Mr. Pook ($6,600)
and Mr. Carter ($6,600). Also includes the payment of premiums for
disability insurance on behalf of Mr. Pook in the amount of $4,242 and Mr.
Carter of $336.
Currently, there are only two employees of the Company. Christopher Pook,
the sole Director, President and CEO of the Company, amended his employment
agreement on January 30, 2004. In the amendment, Mr. Pook agreed to waive all of
his potential payments related to a proposed change of control of Championship.
If a change
20
of control did occur, Mr. Pook may have been entitled to a payment equal to
three times his current compensation and would receive additional benefits.
Under the amended agreement, Mr. Pook continued to be employed as President and
CEO of the Company through December 18, 2004. In December of 2004, Mr. Pook's
employment agreement was extended by the Company through June 30, 2005. Mr. Pook
has agreed to reduce his salary and benefits to $15,769.25 per month commencing
July 1, 2005 until November 30, 2005.
Mr. Carter entered into an amendment to his employment agreement with the
Company effective February 9, 2004. Mr. Carter agreed to retain his position as
Chief Financial Officer, Vice President of Finance, Chief Accounting Officer,
and Treasurer through December 31, 2004. In December of 2004, Mr. Carter's
employment agreement was extended by the Company through June 30, 2005. Mr.
Carter has agreed to reduce his salary and benefits to $12,692.25 per month for
July 1, 2005 until November 30, 2005.
Because Mr. Pook is the sole Director of the Company, there is no longer a
Compensation Committee. Mr. Pook's initial amended employment agreement was
approved by the Compensation Committee which was in place at the time the
amendment to the employment agreement was entered into. There was no such
approval for the further amendments.
RETENTION OF CERTAIN KEY PERSONNEL.
The success of the Plan of Dissolution depends in large part upon our
ability to retain the services of Christopher R. Pook as the sole director,
president and chief executive officer and Thomas L. Carter, chief financial
officer. Both Mr. Pook and Mr. Carter have continued to work for Championship in
order to wind up its affairs and complete its dissolution. Neither Mr. Pook nor
Mr. Carter asked for, nor did they receive, any retention payments as incentive
to retain their services during this difficult period of time. If the
dissolution is not voted on favorably by our stockholders, it is anticipated
that both Mr. Pook and Mr. Carter will resign their positions, and we will be
required to hire new personnel or a service company to attempt to liquidate and
dissolve the Company in the future. This would be much more costly than the
orderly dissolution that we are presenting to our stockholders.
OPTION GRANTS IN LAST FISCAL YEAR
We did not grant any options during 2004. Mr. Pook and Mr. Carter each
cancelled their outstanding options effective March 31, 2005.
AGGREGATE OPTION EXERCISES IN
LAST FISCAL YEAR AND FISCAL YEAR-
END OPTION VALUES
The following table provides information on option exercises in 2004 by
each of the named executive officers and the values of each of such officer's
unexercised options at December 31, 2004. Mr. Pook and Mr. Carter each cancelled
their outstanding options effective March 31, 2005.
NUMBER OF SECURITIES
UNDERLYING VALUE OF UNEXERCISED
NUMBER OF UNEXERCISED OPTIONS AT IN-THE-MONEY OPTIONS AT
SHARES FISCAL YEAR-END FISCAL YEAR-END (1)
ACQUIRED ON VALUE --------------------------- ---------------------------
NAME EXERCISE REALIZED EXERCISABLE UNEXERCISABLE EXERCISABLE UNEXERCISABLE
---- ----------- -------- ----------- ------------- ----------- -------------
Christopher R. Pook 0 0 616,666 83,334 0 0
Thomas L. Carter 0 0 96,667 13,333 0 0
(1) The value of unexercised options is based upon the difference between the
exercise price and the average of the high and low market prices on
December 31, 2004 of $0.14.
21
DIRECTOR COMPENSATION ARRANGEMENTS
Mr. Pook is the sole member of the board of directors and does not receive
additional director compensation.
EQUITY COMPENSATION PLAN INFORMATION
There are no outstanding options, warrants or rights under equity
compensation plans as of March 31, 2005.
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
We have historically entered into transactions with related parties,
because several of our directors and one of our significant stockholders are
team owners. Since we are not engaged in an active business in 2005, it is not
anticipated that there will be any additional material transactions with
affiliates. There were no material transactions with affiliates in 2004, other
than completion of the Bankruptcy Plan and performance by the Company of its
obligations under the Asset Purchase Agreement and the Sanction Agreement.
OTHER MATTERS
The Board of Directors does not know of any other matters which may come
before the Special Meeting. However, if any other matters are properly presented
at the Special Meeting, it is the intention of the persons named in the
accompanying proxy to vote, or otherwise act, in accordance with their judgment
on such matters.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
We are subject to the reporting requirements of the Securities Exchange Act
of 1934, and we file reports, proxy statements and other information with the
SEC. You may read and copy any materials we file with the SEC at the SEC's
Public Reference Room at 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549. Please
call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the Public Reference
Room. Our public filings are also available to the public from commercial
document retrieval services and at the Internet web site maintained by the SEC
at http://www.sec.gov.
In conjunction with this proxy statement, we are sending you a copy of our
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004 and our
Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the first three quarters of 2005. Our Annual
and Quarterly Reports, including our selected financial data, supplementary
financial information, management's discussions and analysis of financial
condition and results of operations, and quantitative and qualitative disclosure
about market risk and is hereby incorporated by reference into this proxy.
BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS,
/s/ CHRISTOPHER R. POOK
----------------------------------------
CHRISTOPHER R. POOK
President and Chief Executive Officer
22
APPENDIX A
PLAN OF LIQUIDATION AND DISSOLUTION
OF
CHAMPIONSHIP AUTO RACING TEAMS, INC.
This Plan of Liquidation and Dissolution (the "Plan of Dissolution") is intended
to accomplish the complete liquidation and dissolution of Championship Auto
Racing Teams, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the "Company"), in accordance with
the Delaware General Corporation Law (the "DGCL") and Section 331 of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), as follows:
1. EFFECTIVE DATE. The Board of Directors of the Company (the "Board") has
adopted this Plan of Dissolution and called a special meeting (the "Meeting") of
the Company's stockholders (the "Stockholders") to approve the Plan of
Dissolution. If Stockholders holding a majority of the Company's outstanding
common stock, (the "Common Stock"), vote for the adoption of this Plan of
Dissolution at the Meeting, the Plan of Dissolution shall constitute the adopted
Plan of Dissolution of the Company as of the date of the Meeting, or such later
date on which the Stockholders may approve the Plan of Dissolution if the
Meeting is adjourned to a later date (the "Adoption Date").
2. CESSATION OF BUSINESS ACTIVITIES. After the Adoption Date, the Company
shall not engage in any business activities except to the extent necessary to
preserve the value of its assets, wind up its business affairs, and distribute
its assets in accordance with this Plan of Dissolution. No later than thirty
(30) days following the Adoption Date, the Company shall file Form 966 with the
Internal Revenue Service.
3. CONTINUING EMPLOYEES AND CONSULTANTS. For the purpose of effecting the
dissolution of the Company, the Company shall hire or retain, at the discretion
of the Board, such employees and consultants as the Board deems necessary or
desirable to supervise the dissolution.
4. LIQUIDATION PROCESS. From and after the Adoption Date, the Company shall
complete the following corporate actions:
(a) LIQUIDATION OF ASSETS. The Company shall determine whether and
when to (i) transfer the Company's property and assets (other than cash,
cash equivalents and accounts receivable) to a liquidating trust
(established pursuant to Section 7 hereof), or (ii) collect, sell, exchange
or otherwise dispose of all of its property and assets in one or more
transactions upon such terms and conditions as the Board, in its absolute
discretion, deems expedient and in the best interests of the Company and
the Stockholders, without any further vote or action by the Company's
stockholders. The Company's assets and properties may be sold in bulk to
one buyer or a small number of buyers or on a piecemeal basis to numerous
buyers. The Company will not be required to obtain appraisals or other
third party opinions as to the value of its properties and assets in
connection with the liquidation. In connection with such collection, sale,
exchange and other disposition, the Company shall collect or make provision
for the collection of all accounts receivable, debts and claims owing to
the Company.
(b) PAYMENT OF OBLIGATIONS. The Company, as determined by the Board of
Directors, (i) pay or make reasonable provision to pay all claims and
obligations of the Company, including all contingent, conditional or
unmatured contractual claims known to the Company, (ii) make such provision
as will be reasonably likely to be sufficient to provide compensation for
any claim against the Company that is the subject of a pending action,
suite or proceeding to which the Company is a party and (iii) make such
provision as will be reasonably likely to be sufficient to provide
compensation for claims that have not been made known to the Company or
that have not arisen but that, based on facts known to the Company, are
likely to arise or to become known to the Company within ten years after
the date of dissolution.
(c) CONTINGENT CLAIMS. Without limiting the flexibility of the Board
of Directors, the Board of Directors may, at its option, instruct the
officers of the company to follow the procedures set forth in Sections 280
and 281 of the DGCL that inter alia instruct such officers to: (i) give
notice of the dissolution to all persons having a claim against the Company
and provide for the rejection of any such claims in accordance with Section
280 of the DGCL; (ii) offer to any claimant on a contract whose claim
23
is contingent, conditional or unmatured, security in an amount sufficient
to provide compensation to the claimant if the claim matures, and petition
the Delaware Court of Chancery to determine the amount and form of security
sufficient to provide compensation to any such claimant who rejects such
offer in accordance with Section 280 of the DGCL; (iii) petition the
Delaware Court of Chancery to determine the amount and form of security
which would be reasonably likely to be sufficient to provide compensation
for (A) claims that are the subject of pending litigation against the
Company, and (B) claims that have not been made known to the Company at the
time of dissolution, but are likely to arise or become known within five
(5) years (or longer in the discretion of the Delaware Court of Chancery),
each in accordance with Section 280 of the DGCL; (iv) pay, or make adequate
provision for payment of all claims made against the Company and not
rejected, including all expenses of the sale of assets and of the
liquidation and dissolution provided for by the Plan of Dissolution in
accordance with Section 280 of the DGCL; and (v) post all security offered
and not rejected and all security ordered by the Delaware Court of Chancery
in accordance with Section 28 of the DGCL.
(d) DISTRIBUTIONS TO STOCKHOLDERS. The Company shall distribute pro
rata to the Stockholders, all available cash including the cash proceeds of
any sale, exchange or disposition, except such cash, property or assets as
are required for paying or making reasonable provision for the claims and
obligations of the Company. Such distribution may occur all at once or in a
series of distributions and shall be in cash or assets, in such amounts,
and at such time or times, as the Board or the Trustees (as defined in
Section 7 hereof), in their absolute discretion, may determine. If and to
the extent deemed necessary, appropriate or desirable by the Board or the
Trustees, in their absolute discretion, the Company may establish and set
aside a reasonable amount of cash and/or property (the "Contingency
Reserve") to satisfy claims against the Company, including, without
limitation, tax obligations, all expenses related to the sale of the
Company's property and assets, all expenses related to the collection and
defense of the Company's property and assets, and the liquidation and
dissolution provided for in this Plan of Dissolution.
5. CANCELLATION OF STOCK. The distributions to the Stockholders pursuant to
Sections 4, 7 and 8 hereof shall be in complete cancellation of all of the
outstanding Common Stock of the Company. As a condition to receipt of any
distribution to the Stockholders, the Board or the Trustees, in their absolute
discretion, may require the Stockholders to (i) surrender their certificates
evidencing the Common Stock to the Company or its agents for recording of such
distributions thereon or (ii) furnish the Company with evidence satisfactory to
the Board or the Trustees of the loss, theft or destruction of their
certificates evidencing the Common Stock, together with such surety bond or
other security or indemnity as may be required by and satisfactory to the Board
or the Trustees ("Satisfactory Evidence and Indemnity"). As a condition to
receipt of any final distribution to the Stockholders, the Board or the
Trustees, in their absolute discretion, may require the Stockholders to (i)
surrender their certificates evidencing the Common Stock to the Company or its
agent for cancellation or (ii) furnish the Company with Satisfactory Evidence
and Indemnity. The Company will finally close its stock transfer books and
discontinue recording transfers of Common Stock on the date on which the Company
files its Certificate of Dissolution under the DGCL and thereafter certificates
representing Common Stock will not be assignable or transferable on the books of
the Company except by will, intestate succession, or operation of law.
6. ABANDONED PROPERTY. If any distribution to a Stockholder cannot be made,
whether because the Stockholder cannot be located, has not surrendered its
certificates evidencing the Common Stock as required hereunder or for any other
reason, the distribution to which such Stockholder is entitled (unless
transferred to the Trust established pursuant to Section 7 hereof) shall be
transferred, at such time as the final liquidating distribution is made by the
Company, to the official of such state or other jurisdiction authorized by
applicable law to receive the proceeds of such distribution. The proceeds of
such distribution shall thereafter be held solely for the benefit of and for
ultimate distribution to such Stockholder as the sole equitable owner thereof
and shall be treated as abandoned property and escheat to the applicable state
or other jurisdiction in accordance with applicable law. In no event shall the
proceeds of any such distribution revert to or become the property of the
Company.
7. LIQUIDATING TRUST. If deemed necessary, appropriate or desirable by the
Board, in its absolute discretion, in furtherance of the liquidation and
distribution of the Company's assets to the Stockholders, as a final liquidating
distribution or from time to time, the Company shall transfer to one or more
liquidating trustees, for the benefit of the Stockholders (the "Trustees"),
under one or more liquidating trusts (each a "Trust'), any assets of the Company
which are (i) not reasonably susceptible to distribution to the Stockholders,
including without limitation non-cash
24
assets and assets held on behalf of the Stockholders (a) who cannot be located
or who do not tender their certificates evidencing the Common Stock to the
Company or its agent as herein required or (b) to whom distributions may not be
made based upon restrictions under contract or law, including, without
limitation, restrictions of the federal securities laws and regulations
promulgated thereunder, or (ii) held as the Contingency Reserve. The Board is
hereby authorized to appoint one or more individuals, corporations, partnerships
or other persons, or any combination thereof, including, without limitation, any
one or more officers, directors, employees, agents or representatives of the
Company, to act as the initial Trustee or Trustees for the benefit of the
Stockholders and to receive any assets of the Company. Any Trustees appointed as
provided in the preceding sentence shall succeed to all right, title and
interest of the Company of any kind and character with respect to such
transferred assets and, to the extent of the assets so transferred and solely in
their capacity as Trustees, shall assume all of the liabilities and obligations
of the Company, including, without limitation, any unsatisfied claims and
unascertained or contingent liabilities. Further, any conveyance of assets to
the Trustees shall be deemed to be a distribution of property and assets by the
Company to the Stockholders for the purposes of Section 4 of this Plan of
Dissolution. Any such conveyance to the Trustees shall be in trust for the
Stockholders of the Company. The Company, subject to this Section and as
authorized by the Board, in its absolute discretion, may enter into one or more
liquidating trust agreements with the Trustees, on such terms and conditions as
the Board, in its absolute discretion, may deem necessary, appropriate or
desirable. Adoption of this Plan of Dissolution by a majority of the outstanding
Common Stock shall constitute the approval of the Stockholders of any such
appointment, any such liquidating trust agreement and any transfer of assets by
the Company to the Trust as their act and as a part hereof as if herein written.
8. TIMING OF DISTRIBUTION. Whether or not a Trust shall have been
previously established pursuant to Section 7, in the event it should not be
feasible for the Company to make the final distribution to the Stockholders of
all assets and properties of the Company prior to ___________, 2005 then, on or
before such date, the Company shall be required to establish a Trust and
transfer any remaining assets and properties (including, without limitation, any
uncollected claims, contingent assets and the Contingency Reserve) to the
Trustees as set forth in Section 7.
9. CERTIFICATE OF DISSOLUTION. After the Adoption Date, the officers of the
Company shall, at such time as the Board, in its absolute discretion, deems
necessary, appropriate or desirable, obtain any certificates required from the
Delaware tax authorities and, upon obtaining such certificates, the Company
shall file with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware a certificate of
dissolution (the "Certificate of Dissolution") in accordance with the DGCL.
10. STOCKHOLDER CONSENT TO SALE OF ASSETS. Adoption of this Plan of
Dissolution by holders of a majority of the outstanding Common Stock shall
constitute the approval of the Stockholders of the sale, exchange or other
disposition in liquidation of all of the property and assets of the Company,
whether such sale, exchange or other disposition occurs in one transaction or a
series of transactions, and shall constitute ratification of all contracts for
sale, exchange or other disposition which are conditioned on adoption of this
Plan of Dissolution.
11. EXPENSES OF DISSOLUTION. In connection with and for the purposes of
implementing and assuring completion of this Plan of Dissolution, the Company
may, in the absolute discretion of the Board, pay any brokerage, agency,
professional and other fees and expenses of persons rendering services to the
Company in connection with the collection, sale, exchange or other disposition
of the Company's property and assets and the implementation of this Plan of
Dissolution.
12. COMPENSATION. In connection with and for the purpose of implementing
and assuring completion of this Plan of Dissolution, the Company may, in the
absolute discretion of the Board, pay the Company's officers, directors,
employees, agents and representatives, or any of them, compensation or
additional compensation above their regular compensation, including pursuant to
severance and retention agreements, in money or other property, in recognition
of the extraordinary efforts they, or any of them, will be required to
undertake, or actually undertake, in connection with the implementation of this
Plan of Dissolution. Adoption of this Plan of Dissolution by a majority of the
outstanding Common Stock shall constitute the approval of the Company's
stockholders of the payment of any such compensation.
13. INDEMNIFICATION. The Company shall continue to indemnify its officers,
directors, employees, agents and representatives in accordance with its
Certificate of Incorporation, as amended, and Bylaws and any contractual
arrangements, for the actions taken in connection with this Plan of Dissolution
and the winding up of the affairs of
25
the Company. The Company's obligation to indemnify such persons may also be
satisfied out of the assets of the Trust. The Board and the Trustees, in their
absolute discretion, are authorized to obtain and maintain insurance as may be
necessary or appropriate to cover the Company's obligation hereunder, including
seeking an extension of time and coverage of the Company's insurance policies
currently in effect.
14. MODIFICATION OR ABANDONMENT OF THE PLAN OF DISSOLUTION. Notwithstanding
authorization or consent to this Plan of Dissolution and the transactions
contemplated hereby by the Stockholders, the Board may modify, amend or abandon
this Plan of Dissolution and the transactions contemplated hereby without
further action by the Stockholders to the extent permitted by the DGCL.
15. AUTHORIZATION. The Board of the Company is hereby authorized, without
further action by the Stockholders, to do and perform or cause the officers of
the Company, subject to approval of the Board, to do and perform, any and all
acts, and to make, execute, deliver or adopt any and all agreements,
resolutions, conveyances, certificates and other documents of every kind which
are deemed necessary, appropriate or desirable, in the absolute discretion of
the Board, to implement this Plan of Dissolution and the transaction
contemplated hereby, including, without limiting the foregoing, all filings or
acts required by any state or federal law or regulation to wind up its affairs.
26
CHAMPIONSHIP AUTO RACING TEAMS, INC.
SPECIAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2005
10:00 A.M.
PLACE OF MEETING
BAKER & HOSTETLER LLP
SUITE 2100
65 E. STATE STREET
COLUMBUS, OHIO 43215
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CHAMPIONSHIP AUTO RACING TEAMS, INC.
5350 LAKEVIEW PARKWAY DRIVE SOUTH
INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46268 PROXY
THIS PROXY IS SOLICITED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR USE AT THE SPECIAL MEETING
ON DECEMBER 13, 2005.
The shares of stock you hold in your account will be voted as you specify on the
reverse side.
IF NO CHOICE IS SPECIFIED, THE PROXY WILL NOT BE VOTED "FOR" THE PROPOSAL.
By signing the proxy, you revoke all prior proxies and appoint Christopher R.
Pook, and Thomas L. Carter, and each of them, with full power of substitution,
to vote your shares on the matters shown on the reverse side and any other
matters which may come before the Special Meeting and all adjournments.
See reverse for voting instructions.
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COMPANY #
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THERE ARE THREE WAYS TO VOTE YOUR PROXY
YOUR TELEPHONE OR INTERNET VOTE AUTHORIZES THE NAMED PROXIES TO VOTE YOUR SHARES
IN THE SAME MANNER AS IF YOU MARKED, SIGNED AND RETURNED YOUR PROXY CARD.
VOTE BY PHONE - TOLL FREE - 1-800-560-1965 - QUICK *** EASY *** IMMEDIATE
o Use any touch-tone telephone to vote your proxy 24 hours a day, 7 days a
week, until 12:00 p.m. (CT) on December 12, 2005.
o Please have your proxy card and the last four digits of your Social Security
Number or Tax Identification Number available. Follow the simple instructions
the voice provides you.
VOTE BY INTERNET - http://www.eproxy.com/cpnt.pk/ - QUICK *** EASY *** IMMEDIATE
o Use the Internet to vote your proxy 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, until
12:00 p.m. (CT) on December 12, 2005.
o Please have your proxy card and the last four digits of your Social Security
Number or Tax Identification Number available. Follow the simple instructions
to obtain your records and create an electronic ballot.
VOTE BY MAIL
Mark, sign and date your proxy card and return it in the postage-paid envelope
we've provided or return it to Championship Auto Racing Teams, Inc., c/o
Shareowner Services(SM), P.O. Box 64873, St. Paul, MN 55164-0873.
IF YOU VOTE BY PHONE OR INTERNET, PLEASE DO NOT MAIL YOUR PROXY CARD
Please detach here
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS A VOTE FOR PROPOSAL NO. 1
Proposal No. 1 Approval and Adoption of Plan of Liquidation
and Dissolution
[ ] For [ ] Against [ ] Abstain
THIS PROXY WILL BE VOTED AS DIRECTED AND AS SAID PROXIES DEEM ADVISABLE ON SUCH
OTHER MATTERS AS MAY COME BEFORE THE MEETING OR ANY POSTPONEMENT(S) OR
ADJOURNMENT(S) THEREOF, IF NO CONTRARY DIRECTION IS INDICATED, THIS PROXY WILL
BE VOTED FOR APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE PLAN OF LIQUIDATION.
Address Change? Mark Box [ ] Indicate changes below: Date
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Signature(s) in Box
Please sign exactly as your name(s)
appears on Proxy. If held in joint
tenancy, all persons must sign.
Trustees, administrators, etc. should
include title and authority.
Corporations should provide full name of
corporation and title of authorized
officer signing the proxy.