OUR TEAM

Geoff Isabelle

Parts Department Manager

You could say that Geoff's passion for machines of all kinds runs in blood. From his Mother's side, Geoff's Grandfather was service manager for the Louisville, KY area Mack Truck distributor, as well as a brilliant self-taught engineer. Geoff's father was also from a mechanical family; his older brother ran a well-respected repair shop in Islip, NY where he built many engines for the locals who raced at Islip Speedway.

When Geoff was about 5 years old, his car-loving father bought a 1972 BMW 2002tii, which he fondly remembers riding up front with dad, blasting out of toll booths and carrying big speed around exit ramps. The 2002tii is still in Geoff's possession to this day and currently resides in his garage...and basement... and back yard... and is far from road worthy! Geoff started displaying his roots as a gear head at an early age by sketching and doodling cars on just about every flat surface he could find (including some surfaces that landed him in significant trouble with his parents and teachers). One memorable influence came from a family friend who gave him a generous stack of CAR Magazine from the early 80's. Those back issues of CAR were studied from cover to cover, over and over as Geoff's curiosity for interesting cars grew exponentially. His classmates talked Nascar and NHRA while Geoff devoured any bit of information he could about F1 and Group B rally cars. He was probably the only kid in his elementary school who knew what a Lancia Delta S4 was! That's not to say Geoff's passion for European motorsport left no room for the ovals. Geoff's father routinely took him to Stafford Motor Speedway for Friday night racing where Geoff became enthralled with the ground shaking Nascar modifieds. He still carries a spot in his heart for the rough-and-ready atmosphere of the bleachers at Stafford.

Throughout high school Geoff continued his art work on the side. Though not formally trained, he applied and was accepted to Detroit's Center for Creative Studies where he studied Transportation Design. While home from college one summer, he discovered a restoration shop in the area and applied for a summer job. The impromptu interview concluded with the question- "can you drive stick?" The answer was yes, and a broom handle was firmly placed in his hands. Thus began his career in the classic car business. Geoff steadily worked his way through college and up the ladder at the restoration shop, making a name for himself as a responsible and knowledgeable member of the crew. Geoff established trust among his superiors and quickly moved up through the ranks to finally settle in the parts department. His ability to recall minute details of all kinds of cars as well as his personable and friendly attitude suited him well at the parts desk.

He joined Black Horse Automotive Services in the summer of 2009 and has found a great home among fellow passionate enthusiasts. Geoff feels like he was instantly welcomed as a member of the Black Horse family and is thrilled to be part of the team. When not on the phone, perusing the internet, or burying his nose in a book in search of that elusive part, Geoff can often be found exploring back roads on his Bianchi road bike or tinkering on that BMW. Geoff is passionate about all things mechanical. His personal treasures include his late father's D'Angelico guitar, classic 35mm cameras, a library of motoring books, and his collection of scale models. He also enjoys making (and drinking) his home-brewed beer, cooking gourmet meals, and camping and hiking with his wonderful, and very patient wife Callista.