the first time I achieved Gold I was about 9000 miles short. bizarre. I'm not a particular high revenue passenger either, but I do feedback on how each of my flight goes to CX in email. Last time I was approached by a purser?? (dressed in gold top), saying that I'm known to be a very friendly & nice passenger. She was very delighted to have me on-board. Well I criticize CX's seat all the time, but I do find CX service very pleasant most of the time. Maybe that makes a bit of differences??