THE University of Chester has seen its fair share of students achieve sporting success but, until now, golf has not been high on the list.

That is about to change as first year sport and exercise student John Fernandes brings his exceptional talents from the golf course to the degree course.

John, 18, from Edmonton in North London, made the decision to come to Chester based on the strength of the sport and exercise programme and the fact that the North West has a range of high standard golf courses, with clubs in the region often being selected to host The Open championship.

He was also attracted by the university’s International Student Exchange Programme (ISEP) which allows students to spend a year of their study overseas.

John would like to be able to spend that time at a university in America, currently a popular destination for many of Europe’s top young golfers.

In fact, an example of this also shows that the talent runs in the family, as his brother Thomas has just completed a four-year scholarship at Bethany College in Kansas, where he is the reigning conference champion in individual golf.

The brothers originally became interested in the sport thanks to a golfing father who introduced them to sport from a very young age, with John first picking up the clubs at the tender age of three.

He said: “My Dad always played and, as soon as I was able to walk, I used to go around the course with him. Pretty soon after that, I started to play myself.”

Since then, he has built an impressive resume, becoming one of the most talented young golfers in the country.

John has won a large array of tournaments both in the UK and abroad, and in every age group from under-nine upwards.

John now holds a handicap of just one and, in Chester, feels he can acquire a solid base of support before he goes on to pursue a professional golfing career.

While studying, John hopes to gain selection for the England squad in 2011 and, after completing his degree, plans to become a touring professional, competing at the highest level.

He continues to practice daily, in every way possible, from playing courses in the Chester area to using a putting machine on the carpet of his on-campus room.

“My goal is simply to the best golfer I can be and aim as high as possible. So, if I can, I am determined to become one of the best in the world.”