I myself am a non owner, and I haven't been a non owner for very long. Maybe a month? But I've tried out for most of the contests that I've been here for(I hope #644 gets judged soon because I love that little guy so much and I wish I could get him). I've kept a lookout on the nursery boards to see if any baby plumies were having tryouts, I've kept a lookout on the fanclub to look at art and for announcements of readopts or lost connections, which are quite sad but provide an opportunity to possibly get one.
Personally, I think the amount on non owner contests are okay like they are. There have been quite a few lately, but there have been just as many chances for owners. I agree that owners can't just easily walk up and win a contest, but if you've been in the community for a while you have better resources for help and relationships than say, a newbie like me. But that's okay. I'll get there one day
