The red silk tie (it also comes in blue) has become a hot commodity following its star turn around the neck of Team Canada head coach and McGill alumnus Mike Babcock during the gold-medal Olympic men’s hockey game on Feb. 28. The tie even has its own Facebook page.
Lawrence Marzette, manager of the McGill bookstore, told the Toronto Star that “in a good month we might sell two ties.” However, within hours of Team Canada’s stunning overtime win, the shop sold 90 ties at $49.99 apiece.
The “lucky McGill tie” had already gained some attention last year when Mr. Babcock wore it during several key games as he coached the Detroit Red Wings to a Stanley Cup championship. According to McGill, the tie currently enjoys a 6-2 record when Mr. Babcock has worn it while behind the bench.