I played holding fast-forward the whole time too I think I spent too much time grinding and not knowing where to go. It took me like 4 tries but I beat Red eventually with all 50-55 level Pokemon.
Well, to answer your question on how i beat Gold so fast, its because i held down fast-forward a ton, and went up against red with all pokemon below Level 50. I mostly relied on items.
Keep it. I could probably get it back, but I'd rather play Zool instead. I never want to play that game again. Either way, CONGRATULATIONS! How long did it take?