Hurtling down Wollongong's Mount Keira at 75km/h on four small wheels? Welcome to the extreme sport of downhill skateboarding.

As far as extreme sports go, this is both one of the most frightening, and reliant on exceptional motor skill.

With just the sole of your shoe as a brake and balancing on the small surface area of the board, downhill skateboarding is a ruthless test of balance and control.

For the first time, Wollongong on the South Coast of NSW is hosting a round of the World Cup Downhill Skateboarding Championships at Mount Keira, the first of 11 races in the 2012 competition.

The event has drawn competitors from all around the world, including Canada, USA, Brazil, England and Finland.

Featuring male and female skaters of all ages, the current world number one Patrick Switzer (Canada) is keen to defend his title in Wollongong.

"Canada's been top of the world for many years but last year was the first time an Australian has come up in 3rd place [Jackson Shapiera] and it's been amazing seeing Australia grow as a world power in skateboarding," he said.

"It sounds like there are thousands of kids out in every back alley [skateboarding] - it's great to be here, I just wish I was here longer."

And if you're wondering how frightening it is to zoom down a steep road dressed in protective leather and a helmet at almost 80km/h, Patrick has a comforting insight.

"To us it feels zen, we're relaxed and looking around seeing the sights and enjoying the view - we've done it so much it becomes natural and the board is an extension of your self."