Based on your requirements, the Easy Star sounds like it would fit the bill.
http://www2.towerhobbies.com/cgi-bin...&I=LXFXV0&P=ML
Under $200 for everything, 3 channel, easy to fly, soaring ability and, since it is foam, it is going to be hard to destroy and repairs can be done with toothpicks and some 5 minute epoxy.
All you have to add is 8 AA batteries for the transmitter.