For me, the definition of a 'true' rider (we are ALL true, some are just better at it and/or more eager about it) is one that is WILLING to chance a fall. We all know that if one sticks with the sport long enough and rides enough horses including young, green and in diverse stages of training/rehab, one WILL fall. Are you WILLING to take that rare and slim chance? Not same as looking to or planning on it, of course not, just accepting that you will and not being intimidated by such an opportunity.
A limited history of falling combined with continued, suitably skilled riding is essentially proof of one's potential ability and confidence to the ones hiring : ). If I were to hire, I would take for granted that the one I am most considering has been off several times as it is established that s/he has been riding for quite some time, as well as on a wider variety of horses. The more horses one rides, the more likely they are to have fallen at some point. Yes, the comfort and desire in remounting is important, absolutely! Equally so is the range of experience. To say one is not a 'true' rider until having fallen is somewhat accurate for me (tis a benefit to know HOW as well as WHEN) but comes up short due to personal interpretation.
When one sits a horse, one is riding. THAT is true : )
