Gently does it: patient approach the key to Defoe and Zabeel Prince says Varian

Patience was the key to Zabeel Prince and Defoe registering breakthrough Group 1 victories within five days of each other, trainer Roger Varian said on Monday as he reflected on a golden period for the yard.

Zabeel Prince kicked off with success in the Prix d'Ispahan at Longchamp last Sunday, before Defoe caused a shock to beat Kew Gardens in the Coronation Cup on Friday. Both runners carried the yellow and black silks of Sheikh Mohammed Obaid Al Maktoum with retained rider Andrea Atzeni in the saddle.

Varian said: "We have a nice balance to the yard with some proven older horses and younger ones pushing through. When you see the older ones winning aged five and six it is very satisfying, and you have to be thankful to the owner for being patient, especially if they have problems when they are younger.

Defoe: winner of the Coronation Cup at EpsomCredit: Edward Whitaker

The double moves Varian's Group 1 tally up to 17, while he is on course for a fourth career century, having trained 40 winners in Britain this season.

"The staff play a big role in everything and there are a lot of people involved behind the scenes who deserve some credit as well. If a horse is given time – and the ability is there – they can evolve into top horses and that's what those two have done in the past week."

Varian added: "Defoe had been placed in three top-level races before so it was great to see him finally get a win at Group 1 level.

"I'm not sure where we will head with him next. I will speak with his owner and we will decide but he has a lot of options over a mile and a half. He's come out of the race well and we will look forward to the rest of the year with him."

No plan has been made for Zabeel Prince either, although the six-year-old has entries in the Queen Anne Stakes and Prince Of Wales's Stakes at Royal Ascot.

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