CC on longboarding shots

This was my first time ever trying anything like this. Went over to a local community college to grab some shots. Since this was my first time I'd like to see what I can improve on and look for in composition, lighting, and poses. Unfortunately this was done at night but I had my trusty flash with me which I never get to use lol. One thing that kind of bothers me is that none of the photos really convey any motion.

Anyway here 3 photos that I liked. Taken with 5D MkII, 17-40 f/4L, 430EX II off camera.

1.

IMAGE LINK: http://www.flickr.com …/mrbubbles916/6​274699392/

IMAGE LINK: http://www.flickr.com …/mrbubbles916/6​272475331/

IMAGE LINK: http://www.flickr.com …/mrbubbles916/6​273004350/

IMAGE LINK: http://www.flickr.com …/mrbubbles916/6​273474341/

I like the last two because:
- in #1, the barrel in the background is out of place in reference to the rider
- in #2, the overhead lights compete with the rider for your attention

drag the shutter, duder ! (meaning: bring the shutter speed down to 1/10th or thereabouts and possibly have your ISO up higher to let more ambient leak in. The stuff lit by ambient will convey movement and your flash will still keep things crisp.).

But the tip aside, I think these are great for a first go.
4 is especially nice--I dig that deep shadow.

Thanks guys. Agree about the barrel in #1. Didnt even notice it haha. I see what you are saying about #2 though it doesnt bother me so much.

Chris thanks for the tip. I actually did try a couple but my attempts had the shutter too slow...more around .5 to 1 second. I'll try again with faster shutter speeds.