The conversation only lasts four minutes, but for the men it was like waiting for a water boarding at Guantanamo Bay. A few stiff drinks were in order before battle commenced.
Beer was the choice of most participants, but by the looks on some of the male faces one of the venue's signature drinks, an Incredible Hulk - absinthe and Red Bull - might have been more appropriate.
The initial skirmishes went well. Everyone was friendly, if a little defensive, but reality soon set in.
'I've never met anyone who has met their partner by doing speed dating,' woman No3 said.
'Well, tonight could change all that for you,' I replied weakly, as I got the urge to drink as many Incredible Hulks as possible.
It also helps if you try not to forget the name of the woman you are talking to within 60 seconds. Luckily, this is virtually impossible when you are speed dating, as everyone has name tags. Mine kept falling off, which was a plus considering some of the conversations I got into.