The morning before 30,000 runners make their way to Boston, 100 golden retrievers will walk one mile and cross the famed finish line in honor of Spencer, the official dog of the Boston Marathon, who died from cancer in February.
MA Golden Meetups, a dog social group that organized the now-closed event, also created “Golden Strong” bandanas for its furry friends in memory of Spencer and his niece, Penny, who died just eight days after Spencer, from cancer.
A portion of the bandana proceeds will go to the Morris Animal Foundation’s research on canine cancer in golden retrievers, according to Boston 25. Spencer and Penny’s family also created a fundraiser for the same organization when Spencer died. It has raised $30,000 so far.
“Spencer and Penny’s deaths shook the Massachusetts golden retriever community,” Elisha Bussiere, co-founder and marketing director of MA Golden Meetups, said in a statement, according to Boston 25. “We all felt connected to them through our love for these dogs and all golden retrievers. Our members wanted to do something for the marathon to spread love and offer comfort in memory of these dogs who brought joy and comfort to so many others.”
Spencer became a staple at mile 3 of the Boston Marathon course, holding a “Boston Strong” flag in his mouth after the 2013 bombings.
Heather is the former food and nutrition editor for Runner’s World, the author of The Runner’s World Vegetarian Cookbook, and a nine-time marathoner with a best of 3:23. She’s also proud of her 19:40 5K and 5:33 mile. Heather is an RRCA certified run coach.
