Chetan is my biggest cheerleader: Lavinia Hansraj

Lavinia Hansraj continues to be on a roll. The former model and air hostess recently won a gold medal at the International Masters Championship Dubai-2023 for 100 metres and 200 metres, and a silver medal in the long jump. Lavinia, who is actor Chetan Hansraj’s wife, has had an inspiring journey in the world of sports. She took to athletics five years ago and has been making India proud by winning international championships in the over-35 women’s category.
Lavinia says, “I am an athlete and I am proud to represent women over 35.This is my third international championship and before Dubai, I was a part of Sri Lanka and Malaysia championships as
well. I am so happy and grateful that I have got this opportunity to represent our country on a global platform. The feeling of winning a medal for India is indescribable.”
Hubby Chetan is proud of her. She says, “He has been a huge support and is my biggest cheerleader. He encourages and motivates me a lot. When I am busy, he looks after things at home and that’s really sweet of him. Our son is very supportive, too.”

She admits it’s not easy pursuing a sport, but is happy to have managed to strike a good balance. She shares, “I started training in 2018 and it has been tough and challenging for me because it’s not easy managing your home, your business (she is into interiors) and a career in sports. Training takes a lot of time; I put in at least two hours every morning. But running has always been my passion right from my school days and I am glad that I have managed to fulfil my dream. I may have started late, but it’s worth it.”
‘Believe in your dreams’
When she started her athletics journey, were there second thoughts at any point? “Not really because I always knew I had it in me,” says Lavinia. “One day I decided to follow my dream and there was no looking back after that. I want to urge all the women out there who want to do more in their lives that they just need to believe in themselves and their dreams. You can start at any age,” adds Lavinia.

'You can start at any age'
One day I decided to follow my dream and there was no looking back after that. I want to urge all the women out there, who want to do more in their lives that they just need to believe in themselves and their dreams.