Llangollen TT racer features in new PlayStation game

Jun 30 2008 By David Simister

Paul Owen

A LLANGOLLEN speed demon is the latest star of the PlayStation generation after he and his superbike were transformed for a computer game released this week.

Bike racer Paul Owen, 36, made the jump from TT to TV after St Asaph based game developer Jester Interactive invited him to appear in TT Superbikes Real Road Racing Championship, a PlayStation 2 game launched on Friday (June 4).

"It’s brilliant that (the company) has used me in the game. I can’t believe it but he’s been really helpful to me in my racing" said Paul.

Players will be able to select Paul - and his 1000cc Kawasaki superbike - in the new game and pit the Llangollen legend against circuits ranging from the Isle of Man’s infamous TT circuit, to newer tracks such as Macau in China.

Gwyddelwern resident and motorbike man Clark Evans helped create the game at Jester, and says knowing Paul led to his inclusion in the game alongside skilled supremos such as John McGuinness.

"I’ve seen Paul race and he has real ability and speed, so it’s good to be able to showcase him as well" he said.

"We need to make the games as realistic as possible and that means paying attention to the finest details so we can recreate everything in 3D, from circuits to bikes and riders. I thought it would be good to represent a talented privateer like Paul as well."

Paul will be bringing a selection of his superbikes to Llangollen’s inaugural Motorbike Show, being held in the town on August 2 - 3.