PerformX Downhill Team 2011 Roster

Building on a successful inaugural year, the PerformX Downhill Team is back for 2011 with new sponsors and a continued focus of elevating Canadian talent to the World Cup level.

For 2011, PerformX is proud to continue working with Canadian National Junior Expert Champion Remi Gauvin. Remi had a remarkable breakout year in 2010, winning his first five races of the season, including Sea Otter and the first Pro GRT race in Port Angeles. Highlights include three second-place finishes at Crankworx and his crowning achievement – winning the Canadian National Championship. This will be Remi’s first year in the pro ranks and with times consistently faster than the fastest pros last year, he’s going to be a strong contender.


Joining the PerformX Downhill Team is 18-year-old Kyle Sangers of Kingston, Ontario. Kyle had a strong showing in 2010, finishing first in the Junior Expert Category at the US Open in both downhill and slalom, and third at Canadian Nationals. Kyle has all the attributes PerformX is looking for in an athlete – beyond raw natural talent he has shown commitment, determination and a work ethic that will bring success.

Based out of Pemberton, British Columbia, PerformX is owned by athlete trainer Todd Schumlick. For 13 years Todd has trained some of the top motocross athletes, and for the past few years he has been working with Canada’s top World Cup rider Steve Smith, who finished strong in 2010 with a second place in the UCI World Championships at Monte Sainte Anne, Quebec.

“Our first year exceeded our expectations and we have confidence heading into the 2011 season,” says Todd. “Remi has been training hard in the off season and is fit and ready to go fast. Kyle has also been training with me for the past six months and has demonstrated the attitude and drive to be among Canada’s elite – we’re thrilled to have him on board.”


Partnering with Todd is co-manager and coach Ryan Kuhn. Ryan has been involved in many aspects of mountain biking as a racer, race organizer and trail advocate for more than a decade. He is a journalist with extensive experience in communications and marketing, complimenting Todd’s expertise and passion.

PerformX is excited to welcome new sponsor Devinci bikes. With the new Wilson DH bike, Devinci has bred a winner and both Kyle and Remi are excited to represent a progressive Canadian company.

PerformX is also pleased to continue our sponsorship with Spank Industries, Troy Lee Designs and Oakley.

“PerformX has a winning combination and strong support,” says Ryan. “It is important that we believe in our sponsors and we're confident that we have the right equipment and support framework to ensure Remi’s and Kyle’s success both on and off the track.”

Todd and Ryan share a vision to create a team that will foster Canadian talent into World Cup contenders. They began talking to promising junior DH racers across Canada in the fall of 2009, which lead them to Remi Gauvin. Remi, from Vancouver Island, BC, was their sole racer for their first year and his commitment and oozing natural talent culminated in a winning 2010 season.

“Todd's training has helped me focus my physical and mental strength,” says Remi. “The hard work paid off on a variety of tracks, from the pedally Sea Otter to more technical tracks where focus and strength are the name of the game. I feel more prepared than ever.”

“In the past 6 months of training, I’ve learned a lot about my body and what it will take to be successful,” says Kyle. “I’m excited to be racing for PerformX and am ready to take my game to the next level.”

Kyle and Remi have kicked off the 2011 season by spending three weeks in California at the PerformX Motocross Camp, one of the top moto camps in North America. In addition to training updates, they had a chance to ride trails in Lake Elsinore, Laguna Beach and Fontana. This season, the team will be attending the US Open, Canada Cup races, Crankworx, World Championships and other regional races. Be sure to look for PerformX’s Sprinter van at the pits at any attending races and feel free to drop by.


PerformX will be preparing regular training and race-focused columns for Pinkbike.com, as well as race and team reports. Check back here for updates as the season progresses!

PerformX Downhill Team will be launching a new website soon. For now, see www.performxracing.com for more details. You can also find out more by visiting their facebook page.