Ep 11. Blind Love

The Young Riders follows a group of Pony Express riders in the American West in the late 1800s. In season 1, episode 11, titled "Blind Love," the focus is on Ike McSwain, one of the riders who is blind.

Ike is introduced as a character who is often underestimated by others due to his disability, but he is determined to prove himself as a valuable member of the team. In this episode, he becomes smitten with a woman named Molly, who works at a local boarding house. Molly is attracted to Ike as well, and they begin a romance.

However, their happiness is short-lived when Molly's ex-husband, a notorious outlaw named Hannibal Heyes, arrives in town. Heyes is determined to win Molly back and threatens Ike to leave her alone. Ike tries to stand up to Heyes, but his blindness puts him at a disadvantage and he is beaten up.

Despite Ike's injuries, he refuses to back down and continues to pursue Molly. However, this puts him in danger, as Heyes is a dangerous man who will stop at nothing to get what he wants. Meanwhile, the other Pony Express riders become concerned for Ike's safety and try to protect him.

As the episode progresses, tensions rise between Ike and Heyes, and it becomes clear that a showdown is imminent. The final scenes of the episode feature a thrilling confrontation between the two men, with Ike proving his bravery and resourcefulness despite his disability.

"Blind Love" is a poignant episode of The Young Riders that explores themes of love, courage, and disability. The character of Ike McSwain is a powerful example of someone who refuses to let his blindness define him and who overcomes significant obstacles to achieve his goals. The episode also highlights the dangers, both physical and emotional, of falling in love with someone with a dangerous past. Overall, "Blind Love" is a memorable and moving installment of this classic Western series.