That is outrageous treatment of a Gold Elite. I have found that CO's customer care people are very sympathetic to people who have been mis-treated by their system. I would definitely call to register a complaint.

In the past I have had their customer care people say "I don't care what >they< want me to tell you the rules are, I'm not treating a customer that way and I have the authority to act."

Call them. Ask for whatever you want. (Travel Voucher for future use, One-Pass miles, upgrade on a future flight you have booked already, etc.) I'd be astonished if they didn't give a Gold Elite some apology.

From their web site:

At Continental, we are very interested in your opinions, and we want to make it as easy as possible for you get in touch with us. Call 1-800-WE CARE 2 (1-800-932-2732).

Dave