<p>This article offers an account of the socio-genesis of what is generally referred to as “talent” by drawing on an ethnographic study of high-level runners. More specifically, it is based on a quasi-experimental situation that seeks to identify the social dynamics presiding over the very different fates of three athletes who possessed the same level when they began their careers. In this sense, the research follows on from studies that have examined the social determinants of exceptional success. Whereas these studies have tended to focus either on how abilities are socially manufactured or on strategies of (self-)valorization, this text calls instead for attention to be paid to both of these aspects taken together. It shows that, in order to understand success, it is necessary to look at the full range of resources at an individual’s disposal, as well as at their interconnection and mutual conversion.</p>