Biography of Pratheek Palanethra: Founder & CEO of Freebowler- Entrepreneur
Biography of Pratheek Palanethra:
The Early Passion for Cricket
Pratheek Palanethra’s journey into the world of sports
technology began with a love for cricket. Growing up in India, he started
playing cricket at the tender age of two. It wasn’t just a hobby but a passion
that stayed with him throughout his life. He played all forms of cricket, from
gully cricket to representing Karnataka in the zonal tournaments. He also
played alongside several current international cricketers, but despite his
talent, Pratheek didn’t make it to the professional level, not due to a lack of
skill, but because of limited access to the right training facilities.
Cricket’s Challenge: Limited Access
Even though Pratheek had the talent and drive to pursue
professional cricket, he faced one major challenge: access to proper training
facilities. In India, traveling to cricket academies and finding suitable
training equipment was time-consuming and often expensive. These obstacles made
it difficult for him to stay consistent in his training. He realized that many
young cricketers in India had similar experiences, where their dreams were
crushed due to a lack of access to affordable training aids and facilities.
A New Chapter in the United States
When Pratheek moved to the United States to pursue higher
education at Lehigh University, he carried with him a desire to keep his love
for cricket alive. However, he soon discovered that the challenges of training
were not limited to India. In the US, cricket was a less popular sport, and
finding a team to play with was difficult. The few available cricket facilities
were far away, often requiring a long commute, and the costs associated with
training were prohibitively high for someone looking to practice regularly.
The Search for a Solution
Determined to overcome these obstacles, Pratheek decided to
buy a bowling machine, something that could allow him to train at his own
convenience. But his search proved fruitless. All the available machines were
either too expensive, bulky, or electric, which made them impractical for his
needs. Pratheek wanted a portable, non-electric machine that could throw real
cricket balls. To his surprise, such a product didn’t exist, and this
realization sparked an idea that would change his life.
The Birth of the Freebowler Concept
While working on his Master’s project, Pratheek decided to
solve the problem he faced by inventing a bowling machine that could meet his
needs and the needs of other cricketers facing similar challenges. The goal was
clear: create an affordable, portable, and non-electric bowling machine that
could throw real cricket balls. With his engineering background and
entrepreneurial spirit, Pratheek began developing the idea of a machine that
would make cricket training more accessible to everyone.
Initial Steps Towards Development
Pratheek took the concept to his professor, who supported
the idea and encouraged him to proceed with it as part of his final semester
project. With this approval, Pratheek began working on mock-ups, prototypes,
and sketches of the machine. He spent countless hours refining the design,
figuring out how to make it functional and affordable. Along the way, he
received funding from a local government organization, which gave him the
financial support to continue his work.
Collaborating with a Partner
During his time at Lehigh University, Pratheek was joined by
his roommate and classmate, Justin Jacobs, who became a co-founder of the
venture. Together, they worked on the Freebowler project, combining their
skills and resources to bring the idea to life. The two faced various
challenges but remained committed to creating a product that could serve
cricketers everywhere. Their shared vision and hard work were the driving
forces behind the development of the Freebowler Superthrower.
The Invention: Freebowler Superthrower
After months of design and development, Pratheek and Justin
completed the Freebowler Superthrower, the world’s first affordable,
non-electric, portable bowling machine. Unlike traditional bowling machines,
which were often bulky and costly, the Freebowler could throw real cricket
balls without requiring electricity. The machine worked using a spring
mechanism that was manually operated, making it easy to use and transport. This
innovative product was designed with the goal of making cricket training more
accessible to aspiring cricketers around the world.
Biography of Pratheek Palanethra: Founder & CEO of Freebowler- Entrepreneur/ age/net worth/investor/startup/cricket training aids/Freebowler shark tank
How the Superthrower Works
The Freebowler Superthrower was designed with simplicity in
mind. It featured a ball-throwing arm that simulated a bowler’s arm action. At
the end of the arm was a cup that held the ball in place and ensured it was
delivered correctly. To operate the machine, the user would pull down the arm
and lock it into place, activating the spring mechanism. A foot lever would
release the arm, ejecting the ball at the batter. The machine allowed for
adjustments in speed, angle, and line, making it versatile and effective for
training.
Meeting the Needs of Cricketers
What made the Freebowler Superthrower unique was that it
allowed cricketers to practice with real cricket balls, which provided a more
authentic training experience. The machine could reach speeds of up to 140
km/h, simulating the deliveries of fast bowlers. This was a game-changer for
cricketers who couldn’t afford the expensive, electric bowling machines
typically used by professional teams. The affordability and portability of the
Superthrower made it an attractive option for anyone looking to improve their
skills, from beginners to seasoned players.
Addressing a Global Problem
Pratheek’s invention not only addressed his personal
challenges but also solved a global issue. He realized that millions of
cricketers around the world faced similar struggles with accessing affordable
and effective training equipment. Many young, talented players, especially in
countries like India, were forced to give up their dreams of playing
professionally because they couldn’t afford to train like the professionals.
Pratheek wanted to change that and ensure that no cricketer, regardless of
their background, would be deprived of the chance to pursue their passion.
Turning Passion into a Business
With the success of the Freebowler Superthrower, Pratheek
decided to turn his passion into a business. He founded Freebowler, a company
dedicated to providing accessible and affordable training aids for athletes of
all levels. The company’s mission was to make cricket training easier and more
accessible, especially for those who didn’t have the resources to invest in
expensive equipment. Through his work at Freebowler, Pratheek hoped to inspire
other entrepreneurs and innovators to find solutions to the problems that
athletes face.
Shark Tank India Investment
Pratheek’s entrepreneurial journey reached a new milestone
when he appeared on Shark Tank India, where he pitched his Freebowler concept
to potential investors. He asked for ₹75 lakhs in exchange for 7.5% equity in
the company. The Sharks were impressed with his product and vision, and
Pratheek successfully raised ₹25 lakhs in equity and ₹50 lakhs in debt at a 10%
interest rate. This investment provided him with the financial resources needed
to scale his business and reach a larger audience of cricketers around the
world.
The Vision for the Future
Pratheek’s vision for the future of Freebowler is clear: to
provide innovative, affordable, and portable training aids to athletes across
the globe. He aims to help aspiring cricketers improve their game, regardless
of their location or financial situation. With the support of investors and a
growing customer base, Freebowler is poised to make a significant impact in the
world of sports. Pratheek’s journey from a passionate cricketer facing training
challenges to an inventor and entrepreneur is a testament to the power of
innovation and perseverance.
A Commitment to Making a Difference
At the heart of Pratheek’s journey is a deep commitment to
making a difference in the lives of athletes. He believes that everyone,
regardless of their background or circumstances, should have access to the
tools and resources they need to pursue their passion. The success of the
Freebowler Superthrower is just the beginning for Pratheek. With a growing
brand and a loyal customer base, he is determined to continue innovating and
creating products that empower athletes to reach their full potential.
A timeline based on Pratheek Palanethra's story:
Early Childhood - Pratheek Palanethra started playing
cricket at age 2, developing a lifelong passion for the sport.
2015 - Graduated from Lehigh University with a Master’s
degree, while facing training challenges in cricket.
2016 - Realized the need for an affordable, portable,
non-electric bowling machine after struggling to find suitable training aids.
2017 - Began developing the Freebowler Superthrower as part
of his Master’s project, with the help of his classmate Justin Jacobs.
2018 - Completed and launched the Freebowler Superthrower,
the world’s first affordable, portable, non-electric bowling machine.
2021 - Founded Freebowler, a company focused on making
cricket training aids accessible to athletes globally.
2022 - Pratheek appeared on Shark Tank India, successfully
raising ₹25 lakhs in equity and ₹50 lakhs in debt for Freebowler.
2024 - Continues to grow Freebowler and expand its reach,
aiming to make cricket training accessible to aspiring athletes worldwide.