On Sunday, golden retrievers gathered on Boston Common to remember Spencer, the Boston Marathon's official race dog. Spencer died of an inoperable cancer in February.
A massive portrait of the Boston Marathon's dog, Spencer, was unveiled by the artist at Fairmont Copley Plaza on Jan. 4, 2023. Spencer and his owner Rich Powers, left, with the artist Tom Mosser who gives a kiss to Spencer. (David L. Ryan/The Boston Globe via Getty Images)
For years, Spencer had been one of the race's most beloved unofficial cheerleaders, encouraging runners who were making their way from Hopkinton to downtown Boston and holding a Boston Strong banner.
The Boston Athletic Association eventually named him the race's official dog, or the "Grand Barkshal."
The event on Sunday, hosted by MA Golden Meetups, was meant to honor the life of Spencer, and his sister, Penny, as well as all dogs who lost their lives to cancer.
Spencer's owner, Rich Powers, says he was overwhelmed by the gesture.
"You know, it was like tears just came out," he said. "Just to know that so many people care. I mean, the outpouring of support for us is just absolutely amazing."
Dozens of golden retrievers gather with their owners, and some other breeds, to pose for photos and play together in Boston on Sunday, April 16. (Joseph Prezioso/AFP via Getty Images)Dorrey and Rich Powers (center, left) hold a photo of Spencer and his sister, Penny, as well as the "Boston Strong" flag Spencer would carry at the marathon, with dozens of other golden retrievers and their owners on Sunday. (Joseph Prezioso/AFP via Getty Images)A golden retriever wears an outfit touting "Boston Strong" as dozens of golden retrievers gather with their owners on Boston Common. (Joseph Prezioso/AFP via Getty Images)Golden retrievers gather with their owners to remember the life of Spencer, the Boston Marathon's official dog. (Joseph Prezioso/AFP via Getty Images)People take photos with dozens of golden retrievers, and their owners, as they stand by the Boston Marathon finish line the day before the race. (Joseph Prezioso/AFP via Getty Images)A person carries their retriever away as dozens of golden retrievers, and their owners, walk together by the Boston Marathon finish line on Sunday. (Joseph Prezioso/AFP via Getty Images)Two golden retrievers play near the Boston Marathon finish line on Sunday. (Joseph Prezioso/AFP via Getty Images)2023 Boston Marathon
