Route 135 through Ashland, Massachusetts, is a relatively quiet area. But one day per year, in April, this road is packed with thousands of people running the Boston Marathon cheered on by spectators. There are several historical markers commemorating the event, but one located directly across from the Ashland Community Center is a little different as it’s not dedicated to a particular person but to a dog. One who became the official mascot of the 126th Boston Marathon in 2022.
Spencer, a golden retriever was born in 2009 at a breeder’s farm in Upton, Massachusetts. His future owner Rich Powers already had two other golden retrievers, Misty and Mandy, and had no plans to get another. But after Mandy died, Misty became very depressed. Shortly after, Powers took his wife to the breeder and picked up Spencer when he was eight weeks old. It soon became evident Spencer was a very intelligent dog and Powers wanted to share his smarts and compassion with the rest of the community. Spencer became a therapy dog visiting local schools, colleges, assisted living facilities, and hospitals. He became a friendly face to everyone going through various hardships and was adored by all who encountered him.
In 2015, two years after the Boston Marathon bombing, Powers gave Spencer a pair of “Boston Strong” flags as he enjoyed holding things. Together, they cheered on the runners as they went by for the 26.2-mile journey. The 2018 marathon was rainy and drizzly but that didn’t deter Spencer. He wore a navy-colored jacket along with flags perched in his mouth and squinted as water droplets fell on his face. Powers uploaded a video of Spencer in the rain, which wound up going viral. Spencer continued to support the runners every year. He was diagnosed with cancer in 2021, and in the days leading up to the 2022 marathon, the Boston Athletic Association held a ceremony for Spencer where he arrived via limousine and was presented a race bib with his name and became the official mascot of the 126th marathon.
By the start of 2023, Spencer’s health was deteriorating. He passed away on February 17. Shortly after, an idea was proposed to build a statue dedicated to Spencer. Over $39,000 was raised in support of the idea, and local sculptor Jeff Buccacio was commissioned to craft the sculpture. It was officially dedicated in March 2024, just a few weeks before the 128th marathon.
Although Spencer may be gone, his legacy will live on eternally in bronze watching the runners go by as he did in life and inspiring fellow pooches for years to come.
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