Boston Marathon Dog Dies After Tough Battle With Cancer

After a tough battle with cancer, Spencer, a golden retriever famed for his adorable support of Boston Marathon runners, has died.

Spencer gained notoriety for holding his “Boston Strong” flag at his regular spot along the route close to Ashland State Park for nine years, no matter the weather. Spencer, who was owned by Rich and Dorrey Powers, passed away on Friday at the age of 13.

“He was literally like an angel on Earth. There was light and energy that would just come out of him. You would touch him and you would feel it,” Rich Powers said. “He had a soul and people could feel that. He was our family and he meant the world to me, my wife and a lot of people. He just inspired so many people.”

Prior to the 126th running of the marathon in 2022, the Boston Athletic Association named Spencer the official dog of the 126th Boston Marathon. Despite prior health concerns, he finished the 2021 and 2022 races.

“We at the B.A.A. are saddened to learn of the passing of one of our dearest and most loyal Boston Marathon supporters, Spencer,” the Boston Athletic Association wrote in a statement. “Spencer annually encouraged participants in Ashland, embodying the unwavering spirit of Boston’s athletes as he showed up year after year regardless of the weather conditions. We were honored to have recognized Spencer as the Official Dog of the Boston Marathon in 2022, and extend our condolences to the Powers family, sister Penny, and his many friends and admirers around the world.”