Comments: I originally chose Malaysia for my first full IM when I was still living in Vietnam early this year. A good friend (actually, the only other competitive female triathlete in Vietnam) had done it, it was an easy trip (two 90-minute flights) on budget airlines, I wouldn't have to worry about a cold swim or cold weather, which I really dislike, and I would be well acclimated to the heat, living and training in Saigon. Despite the obvious inconvenience, I decided to stick with my decision, even after I knew I'd be moving back to the US at the end of the school year after my dad passed away. Just couldn't get enthused about the available late-season alternatives in North America. In the end, I'm glad I stuck with my original plan--it seems like all those races ended up having issues with bad weather, cold water, swim cancellations, and/or location changes.
It's a stunning course. The swim is beautiful, calm, and well-organized in a sheltered bay. I detest cold water and felt that the temps
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