 In 1972, Autrey finished second in the United States Speedway National Championship.After witnessing the 1972 Individual Speedway World Championship in Wembley Stadium, he made the decision to concentrate fully on speedway racing.In 1973, Autrey was recommended by Ivan Mauger to join the Exeter Falcons – with whom he won the British League title in 1974 – Swindon Robins, and the Poole Pirates in England.