Pup Who's Carrying on Legacy for 'Boston Marathon' Dog Is Gearing Up for the Race

The 128th Boston Marathon will take place on April 15 and one participant gearing up for the big day is Jimmy, a Golden Retriever who will serve as mascot for this time-honored event.

Jimmy is the successor of Spencer, the Golden Retriever who served as mascot for The Boston Marathon until he sadly passed away from cancer last year.

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Rich Powers, a professional photographer who owns The Henry Studio, owned Spencer and now Jimmy. According to Boston 25 News, Jimmy is a donation from Golden Opportunities for Independence of Walpole, which breeds and trains Goldens for use as service and community resource dogs.

Related: Over 100 Golden Retrievers Will Cross Boston Marathon Finish Line to Honor Beloved Pup

Last year on the night before The Boston Marathon a heartwarming tribute took place before the event. Over 100 golden retrievers, accompanied by their families, gathered for a special trot towards the finish line in memory of Spencer, the official Boston Marathon dog, and his sister Penny. Penny also died of cancer last year, one week after Spencer’s passing.

A statue honoring Spencer will be unveiled next Saturday at noon, just across the street from the Ashland Community Center on Route 135. That’s near the spot Spencer usually watched the race — providing an early boost of inspiration to runners with 90% of the Marathon still ahead of them.

About Spencer, The Boston Marathon Mascot Who Sadly Passed

Spencer was 13-years-old when he passed last February due to cancer. Despite health concerns during the 2021 and 2022 races, he still came out to cheer on the runners and hold his Boston Strong flag. He was even named the official dog of the 126th Boston Marathon by the Boston Athletic Association. Unfortunately, Spencer's cancer returned and his parents realized he would not be making it to the 127th race.

Before his passing, the BAA also gifted Spencer with a 2022 unicorn medal and the Fairmont Copley Plaza named him as an honorary canine ambassador.

So many of his fans are moved by the upcoming statue dedication and one person posted, "I’m so thrilled this came to fruition! My first thought when he passed was that we need a statue so he can always be with us. I’ll be looking for you all on the course in 24 days." Another person added, "I can't stop crying tears of joy. I am so happy this is going to happen to honor him."

I know we won't be the only ones following Jimmy and rooting him on as he carries on this most wonderful legacy. He truly is a very good boy.

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