Northern California Athlete and Her Service Dog Prepare for Boston Marathon

Goga Moore, known as 'G Wheels,' qualifies for the iconic race with the help of her companion Ronaldo.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 9:07pm

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A fractured, geometric painting depicting a runner in a wheelchair and their service dog in motion, with vibrant colors and overlapping planes conveying the energy and determination of the athlete.An athlete in a wheelchair and their service dog prepare to tackle the iconic Boston Marathon course, their determination and teamwork captured in a cubist-inspired illustration.Boston Today

A Northern California runner named Goga Moore, who goes by the nickname 'G Wheels,' is preparing to compete in the Boston Marathon after a life-changing injury left her in a wheelchair. With the support of her service dog Ronaldo, Moore is raising money for Canine Companions and a local organization called Walk with Austin that provides accessible playgrounds and equipment for children.

Why it matters

Moore's story is an inspiring example of determination and perseverance in the face of adversity. Her participation in the Boston Marathon, one of the most prestigious running events, showcases the power of adaptive sports and the important role service animals can play in helping people with disabilities achieve their goals.

The details

After a serious injury left her in a wheelchair, Moore initially thought her dreams of running were over. But with the help of supportive people around her, she was able to get back into training, qualifying for the Boston Marathon. Moore and Ronaldo have been training together, with Ronaldo riding in a trailer while Moore competes. The duo is also raising money for two important causes - Canine Companions, which provides service dogs free of charge, and Walk with Austin, a local organization that builds accessible playgrounds and provides equipment for children.

  • Moore will be flying out to Boston on Friday, April 18, 2026.
  • The Boston Marathon will take place on Monday, April 21, 2026.

The players

Goga Moore

A Northern California athlete who goes by the nickname 'G Wheels' and is preparing to compete in the Boston Marathon with the help of her service dog, Ronaldo.

Ronaldo

Goga Moore's service dog who has been supporting her throughout her training for the Boston Marathon.

Canine Companions

A non-profit organization that provides service dogs free of charge and has been supporting Moore's journey.

Walk with Austin

A local organization in El Dorado Hills, California that builds accessible playgrounds and provides equipment for children, which Moore is also raising money for.

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What they’re saying

“The goal was to make it to Boston and I qualified. I got in and come Friday, we're flying out and Monday we'll be participating.”

— Goga Moore

“Honestly, he's my support 24 over seven. He helps me kind of throughout the day. But then we also have some fun when we're training both at the Crossfit gym and then also out on the trail.”

— Goga Moore

What’s next

Moore and Ronaldo will be flying to Boston on Friday, April 18, 2026 to participate in the Boston Marathon on Monday, April 21, 2026.

The takeaway

Goga Moore's inspiring story demonstrates how determination, adaptive sports, and the support of a service animal can help individuals with disabilities achieve their athletic dreams. Her participation in the Boston Marathon is a testament to the power of perseverance and the important role that organizations like Canine Companions and Walk with Austin play in supporting people with disabilities.