Photo: Jay Willett/WBZ NewsRadio
ASHLAND, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — A new statue in Ashland is paying tribute to a four-legged icon of the Boston Marathon.
For years, Spencer the therapy dog cheered on runners with a "Boston Strong" flag between his teeth. Spencer's encouraging presence every Patriot's Day led to the Boston Athletic Association naming him the marathon's official dog during a 2022 ceremony.
Sadly, Spencer died in February 2023 after battling cancer for several years. His sister, Penny, died just eight days later.
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On Saturday, a statue honoring the canine was unveiled at 11 Frankland Rd. in Ashland, right across the street from where Spencer sat along the marathon route.
The metal statue depicting Spencer standing at attention with his signature flag was created by Canton artist Jeff Buccacio of Buccacio Sculpture Services.
"Spencer is back at his post, but this time he is here for good, always waiting patiently for the next visitor to be impacted by his message of courage and hope," Buccacio said at Saturday's unveiling.
Susan Hurley, who helped organize the statue's funding, saw Spencer as an inspiration during her battle with ovarian cancer.
"Rain or shine, Spencer’s presence brought joy, love, and smiles to all who passed by, earning him the title of not just man’s best friend, but the marathon’s best friend," Hurley said.
Spencer's owner Rich Powers looked on in awe at the piece that now immortalizes his beloved golden retriever.
"He was too good not to share, and that’s all we ever wanted to do with Spencer was share him, and the marathon was just a great way to do that," said Powers.
WBZ's Jay Willett (@JayWillettWBZ) reports.
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