The Official Dog of the Boston Marathon Arrived in Style for Good Reason
Editor's note: This article was written by a Townsquare Media Northern New England contributor and may contain the individual's views, opinions or personal experiences.
It's official. Massachusetts has named their 2022 good boy of the year.
Kidding - kind of. They haven't named a state dog; however, the Boston Marathon has named an official dog of the 126th Boston Marathon, which will take place on Monday April 18, 2022, according to a WCVB article.
His name is Spencer.
Spencer is no stranger to the Boston Marathon. At 12 years old, Spencer has been at the Boston Marathon holding a "Boston Strong" flag for eight years, according to WVCB.
Spencer is tenured at his job on the marathon route near Ashland State Park. Because of his service for eight years, and in celebration of being the official dog of the 2022 Boston Marathon, the Boston Athletic Association honored Spencer in a well-deserved way on Wednesday, April 13, 2022.
This is Spencer in his own limo being taken to the Fairmont Copley Plaza in Boston.
I mean, look how happy he is. Is there any other dog more deserving? I think not.
The golden retriever that we now know and love as Spencer, had a three-and-a-half-pound benign tumor removed in 2020. A year later, the doctors discovered a cancerous tumor, according to WVCB.
Nothing is stopping Spencer, and his lady friend Penny, from celebrating his life, dedication over the last eight years, and his newly-added title of the official dog of the 126th Boston Marathon.
Just look at his smile. Certified good boy.
Richard Powers, Spencer's human dad, said that he and Spencer have been receiving messages worldwide sending positivity, prayers, and support, according to WCVB.
"I'd have to fight back the tears," said Powers. "It means so much to me."
On behalf of all of New England, not just Boston or Massachusetts, we love you Spencer.
You are the best boy, and congratulations on your new title: The Official Dog of the 2022 Boston Marathon.