Biography of Pratheek Palanethra: Founder & CEO of Freebowler- Entrepreneur

 Biography of Pratheek Palanethra: Founder & CEO of Freebowler- Entrepreneur

Biography of Pratheek Palanethra: Founder & CEO of Freebowler- Entrepreneur/age/net worth/investor/startup/cricket training aids/Freebowler shark tank

 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.

Biography of Pratheek Palanethra: Founder & CEO of Freebowler- Entrepreneur/age/net worth/investor/startup/cricket training aids/Freebowler shark tank

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.

 Biography of Pratheek Palanethra: Founder & CEO of Freebowler- Entrepreneur/ age/net worth/investor/startup/cricket training aids/Freebowler shark tank

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