[4] Smith began riding speedway motorcycles at the training track at Rye House Stadium in the early 1960s.

In 1962, Smith took part in a number of second-half meetings at Wimborne Road and made his first full appearance for Poole at a challenge match at Rye House.

Poole won the British League championship in 1969 and Smith rose to the number one position at the club with an average of 9.52.

[5] Smith also made his first international appearances for England in 1969 against Australia,[6] New Zealand and Scotland.

[3][7] He made 620 appearances for Poole Pirates during his 15 years career establishing a club record.