I do not know of any contests. If you do not have much money why not find a used one? Often they can be bought cheap (or free) and only need basic repair like a carb. cleaning or even just fresh fuel and TLC. Keep on the lookout in backyards, behind sheds and such. Then knock on the door and ask. No cost, only time. It can not hurt.
Also I would rather have a 25 year old snapper than a new craftsman, so there is that too.
