So the only other race I've run was a 9K last Sept and we had record temps so I ran/walked.
This 12K is a local flat race, and was the first race where I've run the whole way. I completed it 1:33:57 which is a best time for me (and pace) over this distance (DH did 52:11). So I'm happy with my time and that I managed to run the whole way.
We have had a lot of rain, but the day was clear, sunny and not too warm (Sth Hempisphere so it's winter here). It was run by a local regional run club and much better run than the 9K we did in a major city with big sponsors. There was about 2,500 runners, which seemed to be a good size. It's also the first year they had a 1/2 and I'm thinking about doing it next year (we'll see what i think next year!).
My only gripe was the runner/walkers. The walkers seemed to keep to the left and you could overtake easy enough. The runners/walkers would over take you during their run part and then just stop straight in front of you, it would be nice if they moved to the left or looked over their shoulder before they just stopped. But I was impressed with the crowd in general.