Late Boston Marathon official dog honored with golden retriever meetup

(CNN) - Golden retriever owners took a stand against canine cancer ahead of Monday’s Boston marathon.

Dozens of golden retrievers and their owners gathered for a meet-up at Boston Common in honor of Spencer, the official Boston Marathon dog that died of cancer last year.

Spencer became a symbol of the race for holding a flag reading “Boston Strong” along the route for nine years, greeting thousands of passing runners.

A statue of Spencer near his usual spot along the route was unveiled two weeks ago.

Sunday’s meetup included a “Golden Strong” walk and a meet and greet with Boston Marathon runners.

“Golden Strong” bandanas for dogs were sold at the meeting, with 20% of proceeds going to a canine cancer research organization.