Less chance of getting hurt with only 10 riders (statically). However, those 10 guys may well be faster than you especially if its an AMA district race. My first Vet B district race was very depressing. Those guys disappeared after 3/4 lap into a 3 lap race. I think I started to hear birds chirping along with the sound of my own bike. Seemed like I had the whole track to myself!
If you are a real noobie and being last is an issue with you, then just keep it on two wheels and finish. Someone always seems to crash and get last. I don't care where I finish as long as I walk away, had fun, and a did a few things right. Winning is just a dream for an old part-timer like me. Although, I have a couple good stories about what could have happened.
Good luck and have fun.