BOZEMAN — Thanksgiving is right around the corner, and while some people look forward to turkey or football, many in Bozeman anticipate the beloved Huffing for Stuffing race. The event has become a cherished holiday tradition — but it all began with one man’s passion for running.

Mia Dudas moved to Bozeman in 2004, not realizing she would soon meet the love of her life, John Dudas.

“I remember being at a potluck — a running club potluck — and mentioning that I had broken up with my boyfriend,” Mia said. “I saw his face, and I said, ‘Uh oh.’”

About a year and a half later, the couple married, had two boys, and built a life together. For John, running was more than a hobby.

“For him, it was his identity,” Mia said.

John ran his first marathon — the Boston Marathon — in 2002. After movin

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