Speed dating? any experiances?

I split up with my girlfriend last xmas who i had been with for 9 years.since then i have dated a few women but no one who i felt that attached to.my mate has persuaded me to go to a speed dating event in the city next week and at first i said no but after giving it some thought i have decided to go.it was interesting that the event had sold out for girls but they needed more guys to even out the numbers.i am not sure what to expect and this is my question,have any of you good people out there been to speed dating? what should i expect? and have any of you met your ideal partner at such an event? any feedback greatly appreciated.thanks
Answer
Here is a link to an article with great dating advice http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/432149/10_firstdate_blunders_getting_drunk.html