Now in its 40th year of operations, MasterCraft is one of the world's leading builders of water ski, wakeboard and luxury performance inboard sports boats. With its premium brand positioning and more than 170 dealer locations in over 30 countries, MasterCraft caught the eye of private equity firms Charlesbank Capital Partners and Transportation Resource Partners, who had approached the Company, preempting an auction process, and signed a purchase agreement in August 2007. In order for MasterCraft's existing financial sponsor, US Equity Partners, to consider the preemptive bid, the two sponsors needed to demonstrate committed financing. However, the late summer credit drought made financing extremely difficult, with potential lenders shying away as the markets worsened and ultimately all but closed. Jefferies offered a high yield alternative with a commitment for a "bought deal." Jefferies served as sole bookrunner for the $105 million senior secured floating rate notes offering and sole lead arranger for the $20 million senior secured revolving credit facility. The deal closed within two weeks of launch in mid-September, demonstrating Jefferies' unique ability to provide creative financing solutions, generate investor interest and execute successfully in even the most challenging market conditions. MasterCraft gained two valuable financial partners to help support its continued dominance in its space, while its two new partners strengthened their portfolios with a worldrenowned brand.