Australian Skateboard Racing Association president Haggy Strom said his team would love to hold the Mt Keira Downhill Challenge again next year ‘‘if Wollongong will have us back’’.

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Mr Strom labelled the inaugural competition, held at the weekend, ‘‘a huge success’’, saying he had received positive feedback from competitors and spectators alike.

‘‘We’ll definitely be looking to return. If Wollongong will have us back, we’ll be back,’’ he said. ‘‘We loved the track, we loved the picturesque surrounds - it’s a perfect venue.’’

The three-day competition, part of the world cup series, saw 150 competitors hurtle down the 1.9km stretch of Mt Keira roadway, reaching speeds of up to 80km/h while balancing on top of a skateboard.

More than a thousand spectators were estimated to have lined the route, watching the sport’s elite riders - including world No1 Patrick Switzer - tackle the mountain’s twists and turns.

Most riders managed to navigate the course successfully - one rider described it as quite a ‘‘straight-forward’’ run - however some riders failed to reach the bottom unscathed.

While Mr Strom said there were no serious injuries during the event, a number of riders took a tumble during the three days.

British competitor Josh Monk, 26, insisted the sport was not as dangerous as it looked.

‘‘People think we’re riding down roads totally out of control, but they don’t realise we can stop quickly if we need to,’’ he said. ‘‘We all have our fair share of spills, but it’s definitely not as out of control as it looks.’’

Monk said having the right safety equipment was paramount.

‘‘Having a decent helmet, gloves and leathers is really important,’’ Monk said, adding boarders shouldn’t attempt any road riding unless properly kited out and away from vehicles.

Wollongong’s own downhill skateboarder, Tim Day, finished 69th out of 129.