The beloved Boston Marathon golden retrievers, Spencer and Penny’s passing last February left a gaping hole in the hearts of many Bostonians. Spencer, the official Boston Marathon golden retriever, died after a long fight with liver cancer on February 17, 2023.
Sadly, just 8 days later, Spencer’s soulmate, Penny, also passed away, from suspected heartbreak. Penny’s owners later discovered metastases of hemangiosarcoma tumors to Penny’s liver.
The two dogs left a legacy in Boston Marathon history, with Spencer recognized worldwide for braving the horrendous winds and rain of the 2018 Boston Marathon to wave flags for the runners.
In April 2023, MA Golden Meetups- an organization dedicated to golden retriever meetups in Massachusetts, partnered with the Morris Animal Foundation, a fundraiser for the research and treatment of canine cancer to organize a new event known as “Golden Strong.” Over 100 golden retrievers and their owners made a 1-mile walk from the Boston Common to the Boston Marathon finish line in Copley wearing a “Golden Strong” bandana.
In a more permanent tribute, a bronze statue of Spencer was just revealed along the marathon route in Ashland. His vibrant smile and “signature flag grip” will continue to motivate runners from mile two of the marathon, where he and Penny always gave runners a nod of encouragement early in their race.
You can find the Spencer the Boston Marathon Dog Memorial on Route 135 in Ashland, Massachusetts directly across the street from the Ashland Community Center, which is located at 162 W Union St, Ashland, MA 01721.
Find the memorial at the intersection of Frankland Road and West Union Street in Ashland.