After overcoming 25 years of addiction, Denver Van Der Bergh is using long-distance running to inspire hope, raise awareness, and support communities affected by substance abuse and gender-based violence.
South Africa (09 April 2026) – What started as a personal fight for survival has grown into something much bigger for Denver Van Der Bergh. It has changed into a journey that now stretches across provinces, communities, and thousands of kilometres.
Denver is now six years sober after a 25-year battle with drug and alcohol addiction, the 47-year-old is using running as a way to connect with others facing similar struggles. Through his non-profit, Serenity Strides Foundation, he works in schools and communities, speaking to young people, mentoring those at risk, and creating spaces for wellness through hikes and mindfulness sessions.
But it’s on the open road where his message travels the furthest.
In 2025, Denver took on a major challenge, running close to 1,700km from Cape Town to Durban. Along the way, he stopped in towns and communities, sharing his story and encouraging conversations around addiction recovery and gender-based violence.
Now, he’s preparing for his next chapter: a 2,000km run from Cape Town towards Namibia, titled “Running a Smile Through South Africa.” When mapped together with his previous route, the two journeys form a symbolic smile across the country. A visual reminder of resilience.
Denver’s path to this point has not been straightforward. Growing up on the Cape Flats, he was exposed to the same challenges that affect many young people in his community. Substance abuse became part of his life as a teenager, and for years, it felt like a cycle he couldn’t escape.
Recovery changed everything. After completing rehab, he began rebuilding his life step by step. He earned a business degree, finding stable work, and facing personal fears he had long avoided. Running became a key part of that process, helping him stay focused and grounded. In 2024, he completed the Comrades Marathon, marking a major milestone in his journey.
Part of his mission is to raise awareness and support for rehabilitation centres, especially for individuals who cannot afford treatment. He also hopes to bring together communities, organisations, and broader support systems to tackle substance abuse in a more collaborative way.
Denver looks to show that rebuilding is possible and that even the longest road can lead somewhere better.
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