Family Of Boston Marathon Support Dog Spencer Will Carry On A Beloved Tradition After His Passing

The family that owned Spencer, the golden retriever who would support runners in the Boston Marathon, has found a way to keep the tradition going.

Spencer originally held the duties of holding a Boston Marathon flag in his mouth as runners attempt to complete the route. He supported runners for nine years (starting in 2014) and runner greatly appreciated the gesture.

Unfortunately, he passed away in 2023 after receiving a cancer diagnosis the year before. Spencer was 13 years old.

"We are devastated to share the news of Spencer's passing," Spencer's owner, Rich Powers said on social media after he lost his beloved dog. "Spencer has overcome some severe medical challenges over the past several years. We thought we would be lucky to have him for an extra month."

Spencer even had a statue built in his honor because he was so loved by the community.

Fortunately for the runners, the Powers have found a way to carry on the tradition, even without Spencer. The family bought two English cream golden retrievers named, Jimmy and Jade, and they have become the new marathon flag bearers.

"[Spencer] was buried with one of his sets of flags along with a marathon medal," Powers said. "One, if not both, will be there on marathon Monday in front of the statue holding a set of Spencer’s flags."

Powers said that the dogs are at different stages of readiness for the marathon duties.

"Jimmy is doing well with holding the flag. Jade is only 4 months old and is in process," the owner said.

The 128th Boston Marathon will take place on April 15th, with a couple of good doggos supporting them.