Sales surge for Rory's pendant.(News)

Byline: Laura Lynott

HE BELIEVES they helped him storm to victory in the U.S. Open... and it seems Rory McIlroy has worked wonders for his pendant and wristband in return.

There has been a surge in demand for the magnetic jewellery since it was identified in the Irish Daily Mail yesterday. The company that markets the titanium pendant admitted it had been taken by surprise because it had no idea the 22-year-old would be wearing its product as he lifted the trophy on Sunday.

Paul Hendry, managing director of Trion:Z UK, which sells the Japanese necklace in Europe, said: 'We have had a massive peak in sales since Rory's win. The only problem is we didn't have any stock to answer the demand, so we are urgently ordering in from Japan.

'We've ordered hundreds of pendants, so hopefully they will be here within a few days to feed the appetite of callers.' McIlroy, who became the youngest winner of the U.S. Open since 1923, believes the pendant and wristband keep his golf swing and temperament steady. The pendant, made by Arc Quest, is said to improve circulation and banish stiffness.

The golfer, from Holywood, Co. Down, said: 'Everyone should give it a shot. It is an important tool that helps maintain my focus and gives me great confidence in my abilities on and off the course.' Mr Hendry said: 'It's been insane because no one even knew about the product until Rory won the Open. They didn't even know who sold the pendant, so people got on to the internet and looked us up. It's not often that you don't even have to advertise a product for the sales to just come to you. Rory has been a great ambassador for the pendant.' However, anyone hoping to buy their own will have to wait, because the product, which is expected to cost [euro]200, was not due to go on sale until next month.

Other golfers, including Rickie Fowler, and Ryo Ishikawa and Francesco Molinari have been spotted with Trion:Z magnetic therapy products.

Arc Quest, which unveiled their Colantotte and Trion:Z products in 1999, also claims the product is a useful aid for runners, swimmers and other professionals. Advertising executives are rushing to share in the McIlroy effect, and he will be the focus of a number of major advertising campaigns. Sports agents have predicted he could earn [euro]1billion over his career.

And the golfer seems ready to play his part. After celebrating his win with a night of partying, he boarded a 6.15am flight from Washington DC to Cape Cod to keep his commitment to a sponsor's golf day.

laura.lynott@dailymail.ie

CAPTION(S):

Magnetic: Golfer's unusual jewellery

Charm: McIlroy wearing the pendant yesterday