I think you are mistaken, the paraplegic pilot made it safely to Sydney in a flexwing microlight. The pilot who died in the Channel on his way to Sydney was able-bodied.
I'm thinking of a pilot who died whilst crossing the channel in a flight with Judy Leden - who wrote about it in her autobiography. I don't have a copy with me right now so can't check the details.
Hang gliders are meant to be very difficult to get out of underwater - my instructor used to compete in the birdman competitions and told me it's not to be underestimated. It may be easier (or harder) in a trike.