Hi!
According to appendix B, Gandalf was imprisoned by Saruman from July until September 18th. The Ringwraiths were across the Fords of Isen that day. Gandalf didn't get into Edoras until Sept. 20 and it took until the 23rd for him to tame Shadowfax, by which time the Black Rider was already in Hobbiton. So the Rider was making good time while Gandalf was chasing Shadowfax around the fields of Rohan.
Cheers!
-Lily
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"But nay: the praise of the praiseworthy is above all rewards." - Faramir
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